Posted by Planning a trip to Canada but aren’t sure what’s required for obtaining a tourist visa? As a Nigerian citizen, you’ll need to meet certain requirements and gather specific documents to submit with your Canadian visitor visa application. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand the application process.
Check Your Eligibility First
Before applying, make sure you’re eligible for a Canadian tourist visa. Generally, you’ll qualify if:
- You have no criminal record
- You have ties to Nigeria that will ensure your return (e.g. job, family, property)
- You have enough money to cover expenses in Canada
- You meet basic health and character requirements
You must also have a valid Nigerian passport that will remain valid for at least 6 months after leaving Canada.
Gather Supporting Documents
In additional to a completed visa application form, you’ll need to submit several supporting documents. Make sure to have these ready before applying:
- Passport – Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned exit from Canada.
- Proof of financial support – Bank statements, pay slips, tax records showing you have sufficient funds to cover expenses in Canada. Amount required varies by length of stay.
- Travel itinerary – Show detailed plans for your proposed trip, including flights, hotels, activities.
- Invitation letter – If visiting family/friends in Canada, include a letter of invitation from your host.
- Evidence of ties to Nigeria – Documents showing you have strong reasons to return home after visiting Canada, such as a job, house, business, or family in Nigeria.
Gather originals and photocopies of each document. You’ll submit photocopies with your application and bring originals to your interview.
Complete Visa Application Forms
You’ll need to complete and submit these forms:
- Application for Temporary Resident Visa (IMM 5257)
- Family Information Form (IMM 5645)
- Additional documents may be required in certain cases
Provide complete, accurate information on all forms. False information can lead to a rejected application or visa cancellation later on.
Pay Visa Application Fees
A non-refundable CAD $100 application fee is required. You’ll also have to pay a biometrics fee of CAD $85. Total due at application is CAD $185 per person.
Have your credit card ready to pay online or make sure you have exact change in Canadian currency if paying in cash.
Schedule a Biometrics Appointment
Visa applicants need to provide fingerprints and a photo, which are biometrics collected at a Visa Application Centre. Schedule your biometrics appointment as soon as you apply.
Bring your passport, photocopies of documents, and receipt showing you paid the biometrics fee. Your fingerprints will be taken electronically and photo captured digitally.
Attend a Visa Interview
Once you’ve submitted your application package and biometrics, you’ll be scheduled for an interview at the Canadian High Commission in Abuja or Lagos. The consular officer will:
- Verify your application information
- Assess whether you meet eligibility requirements
- Determine if you’re likely to return to Nigeria after visiting Canada
Answer all interview questions truthfully. Present any additional requested documents. The officer will then decide whether to approve or refuse your visa application.
Obtain Visa and Finalize Travel Plans
If approved, your passport with visa will be returned within 2-3 weeks. Check all details are correct. You can then book flights, hotels, and make other arrangements for your upcoming trip to Canada!
As you can see, the Canadian visitor visa process involves several steps for Nigerian citizens. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to complete all requirements. With the right preparation, you’ll be sightseeing in Vancouver, exploring Banff or enjoying Toronto’s food scene in Canada before you know it!
For more tips and information about visiting Canada, keep checking back with us here at workliveincanada.com. We’re your top resource for planning your ideal trip and immigrating to this beautiful country.