Canada Visa Application in Nigeria: Requirements, Process, and Types

Embarking on your journey to obtaining a Canadian Visa can be a rollercoaster of emotions – sometimes frustrating, sometimes effortless. However, what sets you apart from disappointment is in mastering the dos and don'ts of the visa application process.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time applicant, understanding the basics of Canada Visa Application in Nigeria is paramount.

This article discusses the right steps, correct application requirements, types of Canadian visas, costs, payment options, and other important details you should know. Let’s start by discussing the different Canadian visas.

Types of Canadian Visa

The following visas are the most common Canadian Visas you can get.

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV): This short-term visa is approved for family reunions, business trips, or tourism. It prohibits working or studying.
Study Permit: This visa enables international students to attend approved educational institutions in Canada for the duration of a specific course or program.
Work Permit: Visitors can work in Canada with this visa. Usually, it's connected to a specific employer and employment offer.
Super Visa: A lengthy, multiple-entry visa that permits visits with extended family to parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Permanent Resident Visa: This visa provides a path to Canadian citizenship by allowing foreign nationals to live, work, and study there.
Business immigration visas: This visa is for foreigners with abilities that can benefit Canada's economy, such as investors, business owners, and independent contractors.

Canada Visa Application Requirements

As a Nigerian planning to move to Canada, presenting these required documents during your application is essential.

A valid passport with at least one blank page aside from the last is required.
Application Form Completed: The visa application form must be completed.
Financial Resource Proof: You must provide documented evidence, such as bank statements, that you have the money necessary to support your stay in Canada.
Passport-sized Photos: Two current passport-sized photos that adhere to strict requirements for size, background color, etc.
Travel Itinerary: A description of your trip’s plans and documentation of your arrangements, such as confirmed flight reservations.
Proof of Ties to Nigeria: Records attest to your strong ties to Nigeria, such as a job or property ownership.
Invitation letter: If you're visiting someone, you might need a letter of invitation outlining the purpose and length of your trip.
Medical Exam: A medical exam may be required, depending on the intended length of your stay or your home country.
Biometrics: As part of the application procedure, in some cases, you must provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo).
Application Fee: Most visa applications require payment of a non-refundable processing fee.
Proof of Health Insurance: Proof of having medical coverage for your stay in Canada.
Letter of Explanation: In some cases, a letter explaining the purpose of the visit and providing details about the planned trip can be beneficial. This is particularly useful if the standard application forms and documentation must address the situation.

How to Apply for a Canadian Visa in Nigeria

Follow these seven steps to apply for your Canadian Visa.

Step one: Choose the type of visa you need to apply for based on why you're visiting (tourist, business, research, etc.).
Step two: Gather all required paperwork for the visa application. These might include a current passport, a filled-out application form, photos of the size of a passport, documentation of your financial stability, etc.
Step three: Complete the relevant Canadian visa application form. Make sure to be truthful in your responses.
Step four: Pay the visa application charge, which is not refundable. Depending on the sort of visa you're seeking, the price varies.
Step five: Make an appointment to provide your biometric data and submit your visa application at the Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Step six: Visit the VAC at the designated time to submit your application and biometric data. Bring the necessary paperwork, remember.
Step seven: After submission, your application will be handled. Your application can be followed up on the web. When you apply for your visa, you must include your passport.

Cost of Canadian Visas in Nigeria

The cost of Canadian visas in Nigeria is as follows:

Student visa: CAD 150 (NGN 107,250)
Student visa with biometric: CAD 235 (NGN 168,025)
Visitor visa: CAD 100 (NGN 71,500)
Visitor visa with biometric: CAD 185 (NGN 132,275)
Open Work permit: CAD 150 (NGN 107,250)
Open work permit with biometric: CAD 235 (NGN 168,025)
Work permit: CAD 255 (NGN 182,325)

In addition to government expenses, applicants for Canadian visas must also pay a one-time biometrics fee of CAD 85 and a visa application service fee, which varies depending on the location of the application center. The kind of visa, the applicant's age, and the location of the application all affect the final cost.

How to Pay Canada Visa Fee in Nigeria

A trustworthy payment channel like the Pay4Me App is one of the best ways to pay your Canada visa fee in Nigeria. You can process your Canadian visa fees with the Pay4Me app without leaving your house. Best part — you can pay in Naira using your credit card, USSD, or an immediate bank transfer. And payout to the Canadian embassy is fast and cost-free.

Follow the steps below to pay your Canada visa fee:

Step 1: Sign up on Pay4Me App

Download the Pay4Me App from the Google play store or app store.

Step 2: Start your payment

Log into your account, Navigate to “Payments,” select “VISA Fee,” and choose Canada.

Step 3: Choose the VISA category.

Choose your VISA category. Tap the next button to continue.

Step 4: Enter Payment Information

Enter the relevant information, including your login email, password, passport number, and any other details the app requests.

Step 5: Complete Your Payment

Double-check your payment information and use a credit card or bank transfer to complete the transaction. Pay4Me will process your payment in at most 24 hours.

Step 6: Save Payment Confirmation

Save the Pay4Me App's payment receipt after completing your transaction. This acts as proof of payment, which you might be required to provide when applying for a visa or permit.

Where to Apply for a Canada Visa in Nigeria

You can apply for a Canada Visa in Nigeria at the Canadian embassy's two Visa Application Centers (VACs). They are

Lagos Visa Application Center

CFPJ+7H3, Admiral Ayinla Way, Lekki Phase I, 106104, Lagos

Abuja Visa Application Center

Sterling Bank Plaza, 3rd Floor

Plot No 1083, Mohammadu Buhari Way,

Central Business District,

Abuja, Nigeria

Conclusion

Applying for a Canadian visa from Nigeria can be smooth with the right guidance.

Follow the steps outlined in this article, and you’re good to go. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions on Canada Visa Application in Nigeria

Q1. How Much Is Canada Visa Fee in Nigeria?

The cost of Canadian visas in Nigeria is as follows:

Student visa: CAD 150 (NGN 107,250)
Student visa with biometric: CAD 235 (NGN 168,025)
Visitor visa: CAD 100 (NGN 71,500)
Visitor visa with biometric: CAD 185 (NGN 132,275)
Open Work permit: CAD 150 (NGN 107,250)
Open work permit with biometric: CAD 235 (NGN 168,025)
Work permit: CAD 255 (NGN 182,325)

Q2. How long does it take for Canada Visa to be approved in Nigeria?

It will take about 30 days or thereabouts for a Canadian visa to be approved in Nigeria.

Q3. How to apply for a Canadian Visa online?

Apply for a Canadian Visa online via the Government of Canada's website.

Q4. What is the fastest way to get Canada Visa?

The fastest way is through the Express Entry program for skilled workers

Q5. What is the best way to apply for Canada Visa?

The best way is to apply for a Canadian Visa online, ensuring all documentation is accurate.

Q6. Which type of Canada Visa is easy to get?

The express entry visa is easier to get.

Q7. How long is a Canadian visa valid?

A Canadian visa is valid for up to 10 years

Q8. What document do I need for Canada Visa?

You need a passport, proof of financial support, and a letter of invitation for a Canadian visa.