You definitely have a lot of questions about Canada Visa Application in Nigeria and how you can thereafter move to Canada (through the Express Entry Program) by taking the right and legal procedures.
Yes, I get it. Some of you would love to visit other foreign nations to explore the serene landscapes and captivating beauty. Travel for a vacation, or you just want to move over and live out the rest of your life.
I know the rate at which moving to Canada from Nigeria was trending during the result of #EndSars protests, you’re aware of that too. But why Canada and not any other countries?
But Why Would You Want to Move to Canada from Nigeria?
I’m not going to start narrating the situation of this country called Nigeria, we both know what’s happening here. But here is the reason why some Nigerians and even foreigners want to move to Canada;
- Job opportunities are so high in Canada for professional and skilled migrants
- There’s trading opportunities in Canada
- Canada has one of the best health facilities in the world at most affordable cost.
- Education in Canada is very affordable too.
- There’s no ban, embargo or restriction for anybody qualified to apply for Canada visa
But with all these benefits this country has to offer, that doesn’t mean Canada visa application in Nigeria is that easy, else everybody would have moved to Canada.
But today, we are going to talk about how to apply for a Canada Visa in Nigeria, the needed requirements and other important stuff.
SO, let’s start going to Canada!
But wait,
We need to know which type of Visa we will need before we can proceed to a Canada visa application in Nigeria because without it, we are just going to punch the air. Here are the different types of Visa in Canada;
Types of Visa in Canada
We have different types of Visas which serve different purposes. You need to be very careful when applying for a Canada Visa from Nigeria or any part of the world.
Basically we have the Permanent and Temporary Visa (with Single or Multiple entry). But these Visas in Canada are splits into different types that may suit your purpose for visiting or moving to Canada.
Below are the type of Visa we have;
- Student Visa
- Visitor Visa
- Express Entry Program
- Business Class Immigration
- Canadian Experience Class Visa
- Work Permits
- Federal Skilled Worker Visa
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Provincial Nomination Programs
- Live-in Caregiver Program (LCP)
- Super Visas for Parents and Grandparents
- Family-Sponsorship Program
- Quebec -Selected Skilled Workers Program
And so on… Kindly get a good tour or travel agency to help you make the best decision based on what you’re going to do over there before you start your visa application.
Requirements for Canada Visa Application in Nigeria
This post is focused on those who choose to move to Canada from Nigeria permanently (Express Entry Program). So, let’s get our permanent visa, shall we? Here’s are your requirements for getting a Canada Visa in Nigeria:
Government-issued ID card
This is a no-brainer. If you’re looking to get a Canada visa, then you should have either a Nationality ID, Permanent Voters Card, Drivers License, and of course, your International Passport.
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Passport Photograph
Two photographs will be required of you when applying for a Canada visa. They shouldn’t be older than six months with a background color as white. If applying online, you’ll need just one passport.
Good health via Medical Examination:
Every nation has its own health challenges they currently face. While they try to fight these ailments amongst its citizens, it would be an exercise in futility if foreigners with illness are admitted into the country. So, be sure to make sure you’re physically and mentally sound before you jump unto the Canada Visa application.
Clean Criminal Record:
A clean criminal record is another determining factor if you’d be admitted into Canada or not. You’ll have to get police clearance from your resident country. And sometimes, a security clearance from other foreign countries you’ve lived in for at least six months.
Prepare the Canada visa fees:
Proof of payment for visa and Canada PR fees makes up the list of requirements. To make a payment, visit the IRCC official website. Here a sneak peek into what you’ll be paying for
- Processing Fee: ≈825 CAD or N245,000
- Right of PR Fee: ≈500 CAD or N149,000
- Biometrics Fee: ≈85 CAD or N26,000
IRCC advises that all payments should be made together. These fees apply to each individual. If you’ve got kids or will be traveling with a child, you’re charged ¢225 per child. There is a discount on biometrics fees when applying as a family with at least two people.
Good Financial background or Backup
It’s expected that you have a means of income currently and in the past 6 months before your application. A bank statement will need to be presented alongside other important documents.
Ties to Nigeria
A very sketchy aspect of Canada visa application in Nigeria has to do with ties to your country, Nigeria. You’re more likely to gain admittance into foreign nations if you’ve got credible ties to your home country. A house, for instance, a business entity, and in some cases, family (immediate or extended). So, make sure you’ve got the necessary documents to show for this.
A Cover Letter
This is important and needs to be well-crafted. This letter would explain your reason for application. Travel agencies may help with this. Or better still, if you choose to craft one yourself, feel free to check out samples online for guidance. It should contain important details about your trip, its duration, and more.
Language requirements
Since you can read and write in English, then you’ve got an edge. Fluency in another language like French will give you more points.
Educational requirements
You’ll be needing your degrees along with transcripts. There are different tests you’ll have to take as well. First, you’ll have to take the questionnaire. This will determine what kind of job you’ll be offered. Questions are asked in different fields from age, nationality, education, occupation, and more.
Though this on its own won’t hinder your chance of getting a permanent residency, your answers must be honest.
Next, you’ll have to take either the following English or French language test, or both, to stand a better chance. For English, we’ve got CELPIP (Canada English Language Proficiency Index Program) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System).
The latter is popular in this part of the world and there are lots of blog posts, threads, and forum topics that would help you ace this test.
For the French part of the test, we’ve got TEF Canada and TCF Canada. Being fluent in French will give you an edge if you passed the English test even though the French test isn’t compulsory.
ALSO READ: How to Get Travel Insurance in Nigeria
How to Apply for Canadian Visa in Nigeria (Express Entry)
Eligibility for Express Entry in Canada
Having all the requirements listed above doesn’t mean your Canada Visa application in Nigeria is done and dusted. Also, not everybody who applies for a Canadian Visa will be approved, so you need to check your eligibility before you start with your application.
How to be eligible to apply for Canadian Visa
Before you can be approved or eligible to apply for Canadian visa and move to Canada through the Express Entry Program, you must have;
- A University or College degree (or education system that is of Canadian post-education standards),
- At least one year of skilled or work experience in your field.
- And you must be good (not that perfect) in English, French or both.
Note that it is not enforced that you must have graduated from a University, but you must have completed post-secondary education which can meet up with Canadian standards…
Applying for the Canadian Visa
We begin by applying as a skilled worker from Nigeria to gain permanent residence in Canada.
For choice, you will be choosing the ‘Express Entry’ option on the official IRCC immigration portal. There are other options available, including family sponsorship, Caregivers, Provincial Nominees, Self-employed, Start-up VISA, and more.
Next, you’ll be creating an official account which you can use in signing in. After successful registration, go ahead and log into your account to continue the application process.
After this, you’ll have to complete your profile. You’ll have to fill out facts about yourself ranging from personal, financial, educational, and more to get a good CSR score. This score is the “cut-off” that determines if you’re able to apply for permanent residency.
Creating an Express Entry account qualifies you for the bi-monthly selection where immigrants are chosen. The higher your score, the better your chances of getting selected. Depending on several factors, you could be picked between 24 hours and a year. If you’re not chosen after this time frame, you will have to create a new profile and re-apply.
The cut-off CSR score will be posted on the IRCC website. If your score doesn’t meet the minimum score, you can take part in other activities that should improve your score while you wait. And when you finally get picked, you’ll be handed an Invitation to Apply for Canada PR.
THEN, Apply for Canada Residency
Once you get the invitation, you have a maximum of 60 days to apply. You’ll be needing all the requirements listed above. You can do this online or visit the nearest VFS to complete the application process offline. For an online application, you’ll have to scan and upload all required documents while you make payments through your debit or credit card.
Depending on when you’re reading this post, the requirements and prices may change. Also, note that fees for online and offline applications may vary. Whether you have your application online or offline, biometrics capturing will be carried out offline.
After a successful application, you’ll have to wait for your international passport to be requested via email. This also comes with approval for your permanent residency. You may receive this within 30 days to one year. Once received, go ahead and send in your passport and get ready to jet off to Canada!
Frequently Asked Questions: Applying for Canadian Visa
How long does it take to get a Canadian visa from Nigeria?
It might take up to 3 months and more than that. But if you’re applying for Canadian visitor visa, it is faster.
How many years does Canada give?
You can get a work permit, student visa and other types of visas for as long as Ten years.
How much is a flight ticket from Nigeria to Canada in Naira?
To book a flight from Nigeria to Canada in Naira, you will need to budget N270,000 to N305,000 – That is between $720 to $800
How do I know if my Canadian visa is approved?
After you might have submitted your passport during the Canadian visa application, you should be expecting an approval stamp on your passport when you receive it back. If you see the approval stamp on your passport, congratulations, you can now move to Canada.
Does Canada have an embassy in Nigeria?
Yes, there’s a Canada embassy in Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria… Check here for contact information
Can I marry in Canada on a visitor visa?
Yes, you can get married or marry someone while on a Visitor visa in Canada, it’s an option for everybody.
Is Canada a rich country?
Definitely, YES! Canada is a rich country , the fourth largest exporter of crude petroleum in the world, with GDP of over $1.6 trillion.
CONCLUSION: Canada Visa Application in Nigeria
That’s how you can apply for your Canadian visa in Nigeria and permanently move to Canada.
After Dubai, Canada seems like a liberal nation for now and everyone wants to go there. But due to the high influx of applications, the process usually takes time. It’s not difficult but it can be stressful sometimes.
You’re advised to do your application online if possible. This will save you from the stress in the time taken to apply. Good luck with your application!
DISCLAIMER: I’m not a travel or tour agent and I’m not affiliated with any agency of such. This information is entirely meant to enlighten you and not to convince you. In case you have any correction or comment about this, kindly use the comment box below or contact me here.
