Applying for a Canadian visa from Nigeria can feel daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. I remember my own experience—it wasn’t easy at first, but with the right steps and a clear plan, it became manageable.
In this guide, I’ll share everything I learned about booking a Canada visa appointment in Nigeria, from the application steps to important tips that worked for me.
Types of Canada Visas You Can Apply for
Before you even think about booking an appointment, you need to know the exact type of visa you’re applying for. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main options:
- Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa): Perfect if you’re planning a short trip for tourism, family visits, or business.
- Study Permit: For students accepted into Canadian universities or colleges.
- Work Permit: If you’ve secured a job in Canada, this is your go-to option.
- Express Entry Program: Ideal for skilled workers who want to migrate permanently.
- Family Sponsorship Visa: For those with family members in Canada who are willing to sponsor them.
- Super Visa: A special visa for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
When I was planning my trip, I started by confirming the type of visa I needed to avoid any confusion later. This step saved me a lot of time!
My Step-by-Step Canada Visa Application Journey
Here’s the process I followed when applying for my visa:
Step 1: Checking My Eligibility
Before I applied, I made sure I met all the requirements for my visa type. For example, I needed proof of strong ties to Nigeria (like my job and property) to convince the visa officers that I’d return after my visit.
Step 2: Creating an Online Account
I signed up on the official Canada Immigration website. You can choose between GCKey or Sign-In Partner to create your account. This is where you’ll handle most of the application process.
Step 3: Completing the Online Form
The application form required a lot of details, so I took my time to fill it out. Be ready to provide:
- Your travel purpose
- Financial details
- Travel history (if you’ve visited other countries before)
Step 4: Paying the Application Fees
I paid the visa application fee online using my debit card. The fees vary depending on the visa:
- Visitor Visa: CAD $100
- Study Permit: CAD $150
- Work Permit: CAD $155
Keep your payment receipt—it’s crucial for the next steps.
Step 5: Uploading Documents
This step took some effort. Here’s what I uploaded:
- My passport (valid for at least six months)
- Two recent passport-sized photos
- Proof of funds (bank statements showing I could afford the trip)
- A detailed travel itinerary
- An invitation letter from my relative in Canada
If you’re applying for a study or work visa, there will be extra documents, like your admission letter or job offer.
Step 6: Scheduling My Biometrics Appointment
Once my documents were submitted, I received a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL). This was my cue to book a biometrics appointment.
How I Booked My Biometrics Appointment
Step 1: Choosing the Right Location
In Nigeria, biometrics for Canadian visas are handled by VFS Global. They have offices in two cities:
- Lagos: Lekki
- Abuja: Central Business District
Since I live closer to Lagos, I chose the Lekki office.
Step 2: Scheduling My Appointment
I visited the VFS Global Canada page to book my slot. The process was straightforward:
- Logged in using my application reference number from the BIL.
- Selected Lagos as my preferred location.
- Picked the earliest available date.
Step 3: Attending the Appointment
On the appointment day, I made sure to:
- Arrive early (at least 30 minutes before my time).
- Bring all my documents, including my BIL and passport.
- Follow all instructions for submitting my fingerprints and photo.
The staff were helpful, which made the experience less stressful.
How Long It Took to Process My Visa
After completing biometrics, it was a waiting game. From my experience, processing times vary:
- Visitor Visa: About 14-30 days
- Study Permit: Around 4-6 weeks
- Work Permit: Can take up to 12 weeks
I checked my application status online regularly to stay updated.
Challenges I Faced (and How I Solved Them)
Problem 1: Limited Appointment Slots
When I first tried booking, there weren’t any slots available. I kept refreshing the page daily until I found an open date.
Problem 2: Document Errors
One of my bank statements wasn’t clear enough, and I was asked to upload a better copy. Double-checking your documents before submission can save you this trouble.
Problem 3: Anxiety Over Processing Time
The waiting period can be nerve-wracking. I kept myself busy by focusing on travel preparations and staying positive.
My Tips for a Smooth Application Process
- Start Early: The earlier you apply, the better your chances of avoiding last-minute stress.
- Be Thorough: Double-check your application form and documents to ensure everything is accurate.
- Show Strong Ties to Nigeria: This is especially important for visitor visas. I included my employment letter and property documents to back up my application.
- Stay Patient: Processing times can vary, so don’t panic if it takes longer than expected.
Can I reschedule my biometrics appointment?
Yes, I was able to reschedule mine through the VFS Global website. Just make sure to do it ahead of time.
What happens after biometrics?
Your application will move to the review stage. Sometimes, you may be asked for additional documents or an interview.
How do I know if my visa is approved?
You’ll receive an email notification. You can also track your application status online.