When I decided to apply for a Canadian visa from Nigeria, the process felt overwhelming at first. But with proper preparation and understanding, it became manageable.
If you’re planning to visit, study, or work in Canada, let me walk you through the steps, drawing from my own experience and the lessons I learned.
Why Choose Canada?
Canada is a dream destination for many Nigerians, and for good reasons. Whether it’s for quality education, better work opportunities, or the serene environment, Canada offers something for everyone. Personally, the idea of studying in Canada and gaining international exposure motivated me to begin the visa application journey.
Types of Canadian Visas You Can Apply For
Before starting your application, it’s essential to know which visa suits your purpose. Based on my research and interactions with others who have successfully moved to Canada, here are the main visa types:
- Visitor Visa: For short stays like tourism or visiting relatives.
- Study Permit: For those pursuing education in Canada. This was the path I took, and it required extra preparation.
- Work Permit: For Nigerians with a job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Permanent Residency (PR): For those looking to settle permanently through programs like Express Entry.
- Super Visa: For parents or grandparents visiting their Canadian children or grandchildren.
How to Apply for Canada Visa in Nigeria
Step 1: Decide on Your Visa Type
From the start, I knew I wanted a study permit because I had been admitted to a Canadian university. However, for other purposes like visiting, working, or even migrating permanently, your choice will dictate the requirements and process.
Step 2: Check Your Eligibility
The next step for me was ensuring I met all the eligibility criteria. Here’s a checklist I used:
- Valid Passport: Your passport should cover the length of your intended stay.
- Proof of Funds: Bank statements to show you can support yourself in Canada.
- No Criminal Record: Police clearance is mandatory.
- Health Requirements: A medical certificate is sometimes required.
- Strong Ties to Nigeria: I had to provide evidence of ties to my home country, like family and assets, to prove I would return after my studies.
Step 3: Organize Your Documents
For me, getting the documents right was the most challenging part. But I learned that being organized makes all the difference. Here’s what I needed:
Basic Requirements
- Completed application form.
- Recent passport photos.
- A valid passport with at least two blank pages.
- Proof of payment for the application fee.
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, sponsorship letters).
Study Permit-Specific Requirements
- An admission letter from a Canadian institution.
- Proof of tuition payment.
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
Step 4: Create Your Online IRCC Account
All applications for Canadian visas now go through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) online portal. I found the process straightforward once I created my account. Here’s how you can do it:
- Visit Canada’s Immigration website.
- Register for a GCKey account or Sign-In Partner account.
- Log in and select your visa type.
- Fill out the form and upload your documents.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fees
Paying the visa fee is an important step. For my study permit, the fee was CAD $150. Visitor visas are CAD $100, and work permits are CAD $155. Payments are made online with a debit or credit card.
Tip: Ensure your bank allows international transactions to avoid payment delays.
Step 6: Book Your Biometrics Appointment
After submitting my application, I received a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL). This required me to provide my fingerprints and photo at a Canada Visa Application Centre (VAC). In Nigeria, the VACs are in Lagos and Abuja.
Here’s what I did:
- Booked my appointment on the VFS Global website.
- Paid the biometric fee of CAD $85.
- Attended the appointment with my passport and BIL.
Step 7: Attend the VAC Appointment
On the appointment day, I arrived early to avoid delays. The process was smooth and took about 30 minutes. At this stage, I also submitted any additional documents requested.
Step 8: Track Your Application
Waiting for feedback was nerve-wracking, but the IRCC portal allowed me to track my application status. Using the tracking number from the VAC, I checked regularly for updates.
Step 9: Receive a Decision
After a few weeks (processing times vary by visa type), I received an email notification. For study permits, the decision letter acts as your entry authorization, and the visa is stamped in your passport.
Step 10: Prepare for Your Journey
Once my visa was approved, the final step was preparing for my trip. I ensured my travel documents, accommodation, and health insurance were in place. A checklist helped me stay organized.
Lessons I Learned
- Start Early: Visa applications can take weeks or months.
- Double-Check Documents: Any error can cause delays or rejection.
- Be Honest: False information can lead to a ban from applying in the future.
- Stay Calm: Patience is essential throughout the process.
How much is the Canadian visa fee in Naira?
The fee varies depending on the visa type. For example, a visitor visa costs around ₦60,000, depending on the exchange rate.
How long does it take to process a Canadian visa in Nigeria?
Processing times vary. Visitor visas take 14–30 days, while study permits may take 4–12 weeks.
Can I apply for a Canadian visa without visiting Lagos or Abuja?
No, biometrics must be done in person at a VAC.