| Air Canada |
Introduction
Canada is one of the most popular destinations for Nigerians seeking opportunities for education, tourism, work, and permanent residency. Every year, thousands of Nigerians apply for different types of Canadian visas. The process may seem complex, but with the right information, you can navigate it successfully.
This detailed guide explains how to apply for a Canada visa from Nigeria, the documents required, the application process, fees, and tips for a successful application.
🎯 Types of Canada Visas Available to Nigerians
Before starting your application, you need to determine the type of visa that matches your purpose of travel:
| Visa Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (Tourist) | Vacation, visit family/friends |
| Study Permit | Study in a Canadian institution |
| Work Permit | Temporary job offers |
| Express Entry (PR) | Skilled workers immigration |
| Family Sponsorship | Join spouse/relatives in Canada |
| Super Visa | Long-term stay for parents/grandparents |
| Transit Visa | Stopover in Canada en route |
Step-by-Step Process for Applying for a Canada Visa from Nigeria
✍️ Step 1: Determine the Right Visa Type
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Visit the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
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Use the “Come to Canada” tool to check the right visa for your situation.
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Each visa type has different requirements, so it's important to choose correctly.
Example:
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If you’re visiting for tourism or family visit → Visitor Visa.
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For school → Study Permit.
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For skilled work → Express Entry or Work Permit.
📄 Step 2: Gather Required Documents
✔️ Common Required Documents:
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Valid Nigerian Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
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Passport Photographs (Digital photos with Canada visa specifications)
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Completed Application Forms:
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IMM 5257 for Visitor Visa
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IMM 1294 for Study Permit
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IMM 1295 for Work Permit
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Proof of Funds:
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Bank statements (last 4-6 months)
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Employment letter, payslips
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Property documents (optional)
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Travel History:
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Previous visas, entry/exit stamps
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Invitation Letter: (if visiting family/friends)
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Purpose of Visit Letter or Study/Work Acceptance Letter
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Police Clearance Certificate
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Medical Examination Certificate (if staying over 6 months)
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NIN Slip (optional but helpful for identification)
🔔 Note: All documents not in English or French must be translated.
🌐 Step 3: Create an IRCC Online Account
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Go to IRCC official website.
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Create a GCKey account or use Sign-In Partner (if you have a Canadian bank account, usually not for Nigerians).
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Verify your email and secure your login.
🧾 Step 4: Fill Out the Online Application
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After login, select “Apply to Come to Canada”.
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Fill in the application forms accurately:
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Personal details
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Travel history
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Employment history
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Family information (IMM 5645)
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Upload scanned copies of all required documents in PDF format.
💳 Step 5: Pay the Visa Application Fees
✔️ Common Fee Structure:
Visa Type Fee (CAD) Equivalent (₦) (approx.) Visitor Visa 100 ₦90,000 Visitor (family, 5+) 500 ₦450,000 Study Permit 150 ₦135,000 Work Permit 155 ₦140,000 Biometrics (mandatory) 85 ₦76,000
👇 Step 6: Biometrics Enrollment
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After submitting the application and payment, you will receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL).
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Book an appointment at the VFS Global Canada Visa Application Center (VAC) in Nigeria:
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📍 Lagos: 16 Billings Way, Ikeja
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📍 Abuja: 38 Lobito Crescent, Wuse II
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Bring:
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Passport
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BIL
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Appointment confirmation
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Note: Biometrics are valid for 10 years.
📩 Step 7: Wait for Processing
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Check application status via your IRCC account dashboard.
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You may be asked for:
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Additional documents
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Medical exams
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Interview (in rare cases)
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✔️ Processing Times (Estimate from Nigeria):
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Visitor Visa: 30–60 days
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Study Permit: 8–12 weeks
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Work Permit: 10–16 weeks
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Express Entry: 6 months (if invited)
🎉 Step 8: Receive Decision & Passport Request
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If approved, you will receive a Passport Request Letter (PPR).
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Submit your passport to the VAC center for visa stamping.
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You will receive:
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Visa sticker on your passport
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Letter of introduction (for study or work permits)
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✈️ Step 9: Travel to Canada
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On arrival, present:
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Visa
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Letter of introduction (if applicable)
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Proof of funds
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Return ticket (for temporary visas)
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The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer will verify your documents.
🚫 Reasons Canada Visa May Be Refused
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Incomplete documents
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Insufficient proof of funds
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Inability to prove ties to Nigeria (i.e., reasons to return)
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Previous immigration violations
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Weak purpose of visit explanation
🏆 Pro Tips for a Successful Canada Visa Application
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Be truthful and accurate in your application.
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Write a strong Letter of Explanation (why you're visiting and why you will return to Nigeria).
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Show proof of strong ties (family, job, business, property in Nigeria).
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Double-check all forms for mistakes.
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Use clear, scanned copies of documents.
📌 Conclusion
Applying for a Canada visa from Nigeria may seem challenging, but it's completely manageable when you follow the right steps and prepare thoroughly. Whether you're visiting, studying, or planning to work, Canada offers many opportunities for Nigerians.
👉 If you found this helpful, share it with others or leave a comment below if you have questions.