Do you want to know the cost of Canada visa in Nigeria? The normal fee for processing a visiting visa in Canada is CAD 100 per person, which is approximately NGN 91,800. Furthermore, there may be additional biometric costs, which typically cost around CAD $85 per, which amounts to approximately NGN 78,030.
Are you dreaming of seeing the incredible landscapes of Canada? Fine, before you hit the road with your suitcase, there is a very important step to go through to obtain your Canadian visa.
Well, I know what’s running through your mind – it is quite overwhelming dealing with visa processes and especially understanding the expenses attached to them.
No worries, as I will take you all the way from fees in Naira to conversion into dollars. Hence, let us delve into it and open up the enigma surrounding the cost of a Canadian visa in Nigeria.
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Let’s get started!
What is a Canada Visa?
A Canada visa is an official document given by the Canadian Government that allows foreign citizens to enter, stay, or leave Canada.
There are two types of visas, namely the temporary resident visas (TRVs) and permanent resident visas (PRVs).
Temporary resident visas
(TRVs) are for people who would like to visit Canada for travel, business purposes, education, or work. They usually last for six months but can be renewed under some circumstances.
Permanent resident visas
(PRVs) are issued to individuals who wish to live and work in Canada permanently. In other countries, PRVs are known as “green cards.”
There are numerous types of TRVs and PRVs, each having its unique features based on which one can qualify for them. The kind of visa you should apply for depends on why you want to come to Canada.
Here are some of the most common types of TRVs:
Visitor visa: Visitor visas are the most common type of TRV. You can come to Canada as a tourist, on holiday, or to visit family and friends.
Business visa: Businesses’ visas allow people in business to enter Canada. For example, they may attend conferences or meetings.
Study visa: A study permit is a document that allows international students to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada.
Work visa: This is a work permit that allows an employee to work for their employer in Canada.
Some of the frequently used types of Permanent Resident Visas (PRVs) include:
Express Entry: It is based on points and selects skilled workers for permanent residence in Canada.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): These programs are operated by individual provinces and territories in Canada. They enable provinces/territories to nominate qualified personnel who meet local labor market requirements.
Family Class Sponsorship enables Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their close relatives for permanent residency in Canada.
Types Of Canada Visa Available In Nigeria
Most Nigerians applying to Canada will probably be seeking a Temporary Resident Visa(TRV) since applications for permanent residency normally go through a separate immigration process. Some of the most common TRVs that Nigerians would apply for are:
Canada Tourist Visa
Canada Tourist Visa, known as a Visitor Visa or Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), is one of the visas that allows individuals from Nigeria and other countries to visit Canada for tourism, recreational purposes, or to visit family and friends.
The following are details of the Canada Tourist Visa.
Purpose: The major reason for which a Canada Tourist Visa is issued is to encourage transitory visits by tourists to Canada, such as sightseeing, national park visitation, cultural events attendance, and maybe an all-out exploration of what the country has.
It also gives room for those who want to visit their relatives from friends who have either Canadian citizenship or permanent residency status.
Application Process: For one to apply for a Canada Tourist Visa, they must submit a duly filled application form together with supporting documents, including a valid passport, proof of funds during the stay, travel itinerary, evidence of ties with Nigeria like employment or property ownership and invitation letter if available.
Other requirements depending on visa application rules may be biometric information, and a visa interview could also be applicable.
Duration of Stay: The Canada Tourist Visa allows a person to be present in Canada for an agreed period, usually at most six months, for every visit.
Nevertheless, the length, as indicated on the visa, might be at the discretion of the immigration officer, as well as the purpose of such visits.
Nevertheless, there is a possibility of extending one’s stay under exceptional circumstances, but it all depends on the request that should be made before the expiry date.
More Details Include:
Multiple Entry: The Canada Tourist Visa can either be single or multiple entry during its validity. For instance, a single-entry visa means that you are allowed to enter Canada only once.
In contrast, a multiple-entry visa permits one to go in and out of Canada many times within its duration of existence. Frequent travelers or those intending to come several times when their visas expire often prefer multiple-entry visas.
Conditions and Restrictions: While touring in Canada with this type of visa, individuals are required by law to follow Canadian rules and regulations.
They must avoid taking up employment without authorization or engaging themselves in any activities that are not allowed in this category of visitors’ visas.
Moreover, the expiry date of their authorized stay is a point of consideration for all people visiting Canada to avoid visa overstay, which can lead to severe actions such as deportation and limitations in future visa issuance.
In reality, Nigerian tourists are privileged to have the opportunity to see different places in Canada, meet family members and old friends, and share the country’s culture and nature.
It allows for temporary visits to Canada for pleasure purposes, thereby promoting interactions between Nigeria and Canada through tourism.
Canada Business Visa
The other name for the Canadian Business Visa is the Business Visitor Visa. It is made specifically for those from Nigeria or any other state that need to visit Canada on account of business. This essay provides detailed information about that:
Purpose: The main objective of this type of visa is to enhance short-term business trips to Canada.
These activities consist of, among others, attending conferences, seminars, or trade fairs, participating in discussions or negotiations with international colleagues, and exploring investment opportunities and market research.
Application Process: To apply for a business visa in Canada, an individual should prepare a completed application form and other relevant documents that can establish their intentions in Nigeria.
These may include such things as an invitation letter from a Canadian corporation, detailed plans of intended business work, financial ability to pay for living costs while there, ties to Nigerian employment, and real estate holdings.
Also, depending on the visa type required, applicants might need to go through the biometric information provision process or go for a visa interview.
Duration of Stay: How long can one stay? In most instances, one will be allowed under the Canada Business Visa to reside in Canada for over six months per entry.
Nevertheless, the term of stay given on this visa may vary with the discretion of the immigration officer and the nature of the activities to be done.
It is possible to extend one’s stay, but only under certain conditions that must be met before it expires.
Other Important Details
Single Entry vs. Multiple Entry: Canada Business Visa applicants have a choice between one entry visa and multiple entry visas.
The former allows the traveler to stay in Canada for business purposes for a specified period. In contrast, the latter category permits its holders to enter or leave Canada numerous times during the validity of their visas.
As such, it is frequently preferred by corporate travelers or those intending to undertake more than one commercial trip into Canada.
Conditions and Restrictions: Those with a Business Visa in Canada are required to follow Canadian laws and regulations throughout their stay.
They should only engage themselves in jobs that are authorized or are unrelated to what took them there for business purposes only.
In this respect, visitors must make certain they exit from Canada before their stay ends so as not to violate visa requirements; thus, breaching visa terms may lead to future denial or deportation.
Canada Business Visa enables Nigerians to establish various businesses by networking, having business meetings, exploring commercial opportunities, etc.
It acts as an entry permit given temporarily to individuals who intend to participate in genuine business activities within Canada, thereby fostering international trade, investment, and collaboration between Nigeria and Canada.
Canada Study Visa
Canada Study Visa is the other name that is used to refer to Study Permit, a type of visa that allows Nigerians to study full-time in designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada.
The following is an elaborate explanation of the Canada Study Visa.
Purpose: Primarily intended for Nigerian students, the Canada Study Visa gives them a chance to study in Canada.
This permit entitles one to register for different educational programs, such as those offered by DLIs throughout Canada, including elementary and secondary schools, post-secondary institutions, and language training centers.
Application Process: In order to obtain a Canadian student visa, Nigerian students must first get admission into any recognized educational institution in Canada.
Once admitted, they can take advantage of the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or visit the Canadian visa application center (VAC) located in Nigeria, where they can apply for a study permit.
Applicants will be required to provide proof of acceptance from DLI, evidence showing that they have adequate finance for tuition and living expenditures, a valid passport, plus any other additional requirement needed by the visa office.
It may also be necessary for applicants seeking study permits lasting six months or longer duration to have medical examinations done and obtain police clearance certificates.
Other Details Include:
Duration of Stay: The duration of academic programs followed by Nigerian students in Canada is included in the Canada Study Visa, with an additional allowance for those who want to stay on after their graduation and obtain a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).
Generally, there is a correlation between the study permit’s period of validity and the length of the academic program; it can be prolonged if students pursue further studies or enroll in another program while still in Canada.
Conditions and Restrictions: Throughout their stay, African learners from Nigeria should adhere to these terms as stipulated in their study permits.
Fulfilling all educational expectations at DLI, adhering to them always, being a full-time student, and failing to undertake illegal employment or other activities are examples that fall under this category.
Also, there could be regular assessments conducted with respect to students’ performance and certain demands added by either a college or university where they go or other ministries in Canada.
Post-Graduation Opportunities: After finishing their studies, Nigerians might qualify to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which enables them to get valuable work experience through working in Canada. PGWP will usually cover study duration within 3 3-year maximum time limit.
This could be a chance for the graduates to find work in Canada and possibly qualify for PR through various categories of immigration, like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
By and large, the Canada Study Visa gives Nigerian pupils an opportunity to pursue quality education in a diverse and cultural mix.
It is a way towards both academic and self-development that also leads to lucrative opportunities after graduation, which may lead to settling in Canada.
Canada Work Permit
Canada Work Permit is a paper that allows Nigerians to work temporarily in Canada. This is what it entails:
Purpose: The purpose of this permit is to enable Nigerians to work for a certain Canadian employer within a specific duration. The objective of this scheme is to address labor shortages in some sectors of the Canadian economy as well as facilitate the entry of skilled workers, professionals, and individuals with specialized skills.
Application Process: The first step in acquiring a work permit for Canada is to get a job from an approved Canadian employer.
The employer may be required to show that he attempted to hire a Canadian citizen or resident but failed, and the foreign worker must fill up the real shortage in labor.
Once you have the job offer, the employer may need to apply for the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
Then, Nigerian applicants will need to apply for a work permit at the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or a Canadian Visa Application Centre (VAC) located in Nigeria. For every kind of work permit, there are different application processes.
Types of Work Permits:
Work permits available to Nigerians are classified into several groups based on the job type and skill level required. They include:
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): This program allows Nigerians who have been offered jobs by organizations suffering labor shortages in Canada to enter the country temporarily. A positive LMIA is needed here.
International Mobility Program (IMP): Includes work permits granted under international accords like the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and transfers within the company.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Enables foreign students to gain valuable working experience in Canada after they complete their studies in any accredited Canadian school.
Duration and Conditions: The duration of a Canada Work Permit is dependent on its specific category as well as the terms of the employment contract.
Work Permits are usually issued for a set period, hence ranging from a few months to several years.
Nigerians have to comply with the terms of their work permit, such as working for the stated employer and in a specified occupation.
They may also be required to provide proof of health insurance coverage; this implies that they must maintain legal status while in Canada.
Other Important Details
Renewal and Extension: There might be situations where Nigerians can reapply or extend their existing work permits if they wish to remain employed in Canada beyond the initial period.
Applicants for renewal must submit their papers before the expiry of their current work permits and may need to provide updated documents to maintain their employment in Canada.
In summary, Nigerians are provided an opportunity with a Canada Work Permit to gain valuable work experience, develop skills, and contribute to the Canadian economy for a limited time.
It is also a way through which people can advance in careers and possibly immigrate to Canada using several programs and pathways accessible to foreign employees.
One important thing you should note is that this is not all-inclusive because there might be other TRV categories depending on specific facts surrounding your case.
Always make reference to the official Canadian government website for the latest information and requirements:
Canadian Visa Application Process (Step By Step)
For Nigerians, the process of applying for a visa from Canada involves several steps – whether it is visitation or immigration. Here’s how you do it step by step:
Determine the Type of Visa: You will need to decide what type of visa you require based on why you want to go, so consult the Canadian Government’s immigration website.
Use their tools to find out if you qualify and determine the right visa for your needs (visitor, study, or work purposes, for example).
Check Eligibility: Review the eligibility requirements of a given visa category where applicable. It would help if you met age criteria, health conditions, financial stability, and admissibility to Canada.
Gather Required Documents: Get all documents necessary for your visa application, such as identification, passport, photographs, proof of funds, travel itinerary, employment or education history, and any other supporting documents required by your visa category.
Complete the Application Form:
Complete the correct application form fully and accurately for the type of visa you want. Use the online application portal provided by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Canada (IRCC) website: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship.php or request paper application forms from the nearest Canadian Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Now, many countries have advanced technology, so most visa applications today can be done online through government websites. The use of these websites has simplified things as applicants are now able to apply using electronic means.
Pay the Application Fee: This fee must be paid after you complete the form. It varies depending on what type of processing option you choose as well as on different types of visas. Fees are typically paid online through the IRCC website or at designated payment centers.
Submit Your Application: Submit either the application form and supportive documents through the IRCC website online or go to a Canadian visa application center (VAC) in person. Ensure that you have included all required documents and paid the application fee.
Biometrics Appointment (if applicable):
Arrange for, then attend, a biometrics appointment at one of the designated VACs to provide fingerprints and photography.
Biometrics are required before some visa types, such as visitor visas, study permits, and work permits, are given.
Attend Interview (if required): Some visa applicants may have to go through an interview session at the Canadian visa office or consulate in Nigeria.
Prepare yourself by looking over your application with thoughts about your background, travel plans, and what you want to accomplish while in Canada.
Wait for Processing: Hold on as the Canadian authorities process your visa application. The processing time depends upon the category of your visa, the number of applications received, and individual circumstances.
You can check if your application has been processed or not using the unique reference number given during the process.
Receive Decision: You will get a decision from the Canadian authorities after your visa application has been processed.
If approved, you can obtain your visa or permit either electronically (eTA or eTA) or through one of the Nigerian visa offices or consulates in Nigeria.
Travel to Canada: Once your visa application is approved, you are allowed to come to Canada during the period of validity specified on your visa or permit.
Ensure that all relevant travel documents are with you and follow any conditions and restrictions imposed on your visa.
Other Important Details
Adhere to Visa Conditions: While in Canada, make sure you respect the rules of your visa/permit including time limits for residence and no works permitted, if so indicated by Canadian immigration officials among other requirements. Failure to adhere may lead to punishment or expulsion.
Additional Tips:
If possible, apply well in advance before the traveling date to allow enough time for processing.
Make sure you read carefully all instructions and requirements, as this can cause delays or rejection of an application.
In complex cases where advice is needed, think about applying through authorized immigration consultants.
Ensure that you are always updated about any visa application process changes or updates by checking the Canadian government site on a frequent basis.
Remember, this is just a guideline; for the most recent information on your kind of visa and circumstances, refer to the official website of the Canadian Government.
These steps will enable Nigerians to navigate through the Canadian Visa application process effectively and increase their chances of getting a Visa/permit to travel to Canada.
Cost of Canada Visa in Nigeria
When applying for a Canada visa in Nigeria, it depends on what type of visa you’re applying for, as well as other fees like processing fees and biometrics.
Here’s an overview of average costs for Nigerian applicants applying for different types of Canadian visas:
Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa): The usual fee for processing a visitor visa in Canada is CAD 100 per person, which is around NGN 91,800. Besides, there might be some biometric fees, which usually cost around CAD $85 each, which translates to approximately NGN 78,030.
Study Permit: The processing charge applicable to a study permit in Canada is CAD $150, around NGN 137,700, with additional charges that may apply when obtaining the biometrics.
Work Permit: The charge for processing a work permit varies depending on the type of work permit and the applicant’s location. Work permit prices range from CAD $155 to CAD $255 (about NGN 142,290 to NGN 243,090). It could be essential to pay biometric fees.
Permanent Residency: The processing fee for Canadian permanent residency varies depending on the program in which you’re applying as an immigrant. Except for biometrics charges, costs of PR applications per individual may range from $1,040 – $1,325 (roughly NGN 954,720 to NGN 1,216,350.
These prices can fluctuate due to changes in exchange rates or processing times. Apart from that, there could be other charges relating to visa application, like translation fees, courier charges, or the cost of getting supporting documents.
Before you apply for a Canadian visa, confirm the latest accurate information about the fee on the official website of Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or consult with a trustworthy immigration consultant/visa application center.
Canada Visa Processing Centers in Nigeria Locations and Services
Canada currently uses Visa Application Centers (VACs) operated by VFS Global to accept applications from Nigerians seeking Canadian visas. There are two VAC locations in Nigeria:
Locations:
Services Offered by VACs:
While there is no direct affiliation between VAC and the Canadian Government, they offer several services that are helpful during the visa application process.
Accepting visa applications: You can hand over your visa application package with supporting documents to the VAC.
Biometrics collection: Biometrics collection; in some cases, you might be asked for fingerprints as well as your photograph for biometric checks at the VAC.
Payment collection: Payment collection, besides processing charges of applications and levies for various services offered by a particular center on behalf of Canada. (NB: sometimes one can pay fees online).
Limited application status updates: limited updates on your application status could be provided by VACs, although ultimate decisions will be made by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the Canadian Government.
Important to Remember:
You cannot apply for a Canadian visa directly at a VAC. You will need to complete the online application process through the IRCC website (https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account.html) and then submit your documents to a VAC.
VACs may have specific operating hours and procedures. It’s recommended to check the VFS Global website for the particular VAC you plan to use for current information and any appointment requirements: https://www.vfsglobal.ca/canada/
By utilizing VAC services, you can streamline the initial stages of your Canadian visa application process in Nigeria.
At the VAC, you can’t apply for a Canadian visa directly. You will need to complete the online application process at https://www.vfsglobal.ca/canada/ (if this applies) and then submit your documents to a VAC.
The VACs may have specific working hours and ways of doing things. For the most up-to-date information on any appointment requirements and other details, it is advisable to visit the VFS Global website at https://www.vfsglobal.ca/canada/
In Nigeria, using VAC services can simplify the initial steps in your Canadian visa application.
Canadian Visa Medical Test Fee
The medical examination fee for a Canadian visa application differs based on the type of visa you are applying for and your location.
This normally includes X-rays of your chest, blood tests, and physical check-ups as demanded by Canadian Immigration Authorities.
According to my last update, this fee ranged between approximately CAD $200 – CAD $500(about NGN 183,600 – NGN 459,000) per person for Canadian visa medical test fees.
However, these rates may be influenced by factors like the complexity of tests involved in the medicine carried out, the location of the health facility, and additional charges levied by medical service providers, among others.
Note that the medical examination fee is not part of the visa application fee or any other necessary fees, such as biometric charges.
Moreover, the medical examination fee may change; hence, it is advisable to read the most recent information from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) official website or consult a designated panel physician authorized by IRCC for medical examinations.
How Long Does It Take To Get A Canadian Visa In Nigeria?
The processing time for a Canadian applications for visa in Nigeria varies based on a number of factors, including the kind of visa being applied for, the amount of visa applications received by the office, and whether extra documents or information are necessary.
According to my last update, it normally takes between 4 to 12 weeks for an average Canadian visa application from Nigeria. However, this is only an approximation, as actual processing times might differ.
Please remember that processing times are subject to changes and can fluctuate for reasons such as the current overall workload at the visa office and any changes in immigration policies/procedures.
Furthermore, certain aspects like incomplete documentation or the requirement for more information can prolong processing time.
To get accurate, up-to-date information on how long it will take to process a Canadian visa application in Nigeria, it is recommended to consult the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) official website or contact the Canadian Visa Application Centre (CVAC) in Nigeria directly.
Is an Interview Required To Acquire A Canadian Visa?
Sometimes, applicants for Canadian visas are obliged to attend interviews as part of their applications.
Nevertheless, whether an interview is needed depends on several aspects, such as the type of visa applied for by an individual, one’s personal circumstances, and lastly, the reviewing officer’s discretion.
For some classes of visas, e.g., study permits and work permits, they may be required to go through an interview during visa processing.
During this time, the immigration officer may ask questions about the applicant’s eligibility, intentions, and ability to conform to Canada’s immigration laws.
However, in most cases, people do not have to undergo interviews for visitor visas (tourist visas) or electronic travel authorizations (eTAs). There is usually no requirement for face-to-face talks while processing these types of visas since they can be handled online based on provided documents.
Canada Visa Proof Of Funds From Nigeria?
To obtain a visa to Canada from Nigeria, you have to show evidence that you have sufficient funds for your stay in this country.
The exact amount of money may vary due to such factors as the duration of the visit, purpose, and activities in Canada.
Bank statements or other financial documents like letters from banks and income statements are some examples of proof of funds that show your financial sustainability.
It is crucial to see that the funding is available and easily accessible for travel expenses, accommodation costs, transportation charges, as well as other living expenses while in Canada.
Moreover, if you have a sponsor or any person who contributes financially, it may be necessary that they send their financial papers together with a sponsorship letter justifying this support.
It’s essential to go through the specific requirements and guidelines given by Canadian immigration authorities or the visa application center where your application is being processed so that adequate proof can be provided with accuracy.
Providing comprehensive and credible documentation will help strengthen your visa application and really increase the chances of approval.
Conclusion
Travelers, learners, workers, and visitors cannot afford to forget that for them to be successful in planning their journeys to, studies in Canada, or working for the North American country, they should stay informed about the process and costs of obtaining Canadian visas from Nigeria.
There are different visa types available; hence, applicants must scrutinize their compatibility with them prior to applying.
Though this visa application process may appear overwhelming, great preparation and strict observance of rules can really increase the chances of success in the end.
Smooth running and enjoying such work as tourism, business, education, or employment calls for understanding how to walk through Canada’s visa process quickly.
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FAQs
How Much Is the Canadian Visa Fee In Naira?
The fees charged on the Canada visa program vary according to the kind of visa being applied for and demand-specific application requirements.
Ordinarily, these vary between several thousands of naira to tens of thousands.
You should thus consult the latest fee schedule prepared by the Canada visa application center or embassy in Nigeria so as to know how much you will be required to pay during your submission.
Can I Go To Canada On a Tourist Visa And Find a Job?
To be more specific, it is possible to visit Canada using a tourist visa. For this visa type, though, seeking employment is not allowed.
A visitor visa is used primarily for tourism and visiting friends or family while in Canada.
Normally, one would need a valid work permit acquired via a separate application process, which typically necessitates having an offer of employment from a Canadian employer in order to be able to work legally in the country.
Does the Canadian Embassy Verify Bank Statements?
Certainly, the Canadian embassy can verify bank statements submitted as part of a visa application to confirm that an applicant has enough funds capable of covering their expenses during their stay in Canada.
This process enables the embassy to evaluate the candidate’s financial capability and integrity. Providing accurate and genuine bank statements is very important so as to avoid any delays or complications in your Visa processing.
How Much Is Biometric Fee For Canada?
In Nigeria, the biometric fee for applying for a Canadian Visa is 85 CAD, which is approximately 78,030 NGN.
Most visa applications require biometrics such as fingerprints and photographing.
However, there’s also an additional cost that must be paid when booking the biometric appointment at one of the Visa Application Centres (VAC) apart from the standard visa application fee.
Disclaimer: This article does not address specific conditions; rather, it is meant to be used for general informative purposes only.
It should not be used as a basis for making any kind of decision and is not a replacement for expert counsel or assistance. Any action you take based on the knowledge in this post is solely your responsibility and risk!