How to Get a Canada Visitor Visa from Nigeria in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to apply for a Canada Visitor Visa from Nigeria in 2025. Step-by-step guide covering requirements, fees, processing time, and tips to avoid rejection.
1. Introduction
Canada is one of the most visited countries in the world, known for its beautiful landscapes, high quality of life, and welcoming atmosphere. Many Nigerians travel to Canada for tourism, family visits, business trips, or special events. However, before you can pack your bags, you must first secure a Canada Visitor Visa.
In 2025, the process remains straightforward — but only if you understand the requirements and follow each step carefully. This guide is written specifically for Nigerian applicants to help you avoid mistakes and increase your chances of approval.
2. What Is a Canada Visitor Visa?
A Canada Visitor Visa, also called a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), is an official document placed in your passport that shows you meet the requirements to enter Canada as a temporary visitor. It allows you to stay in Canada for up to six months per visit.
3. Types of Canada Visitor Visas
There are two main types:
- Single-Entry Visa – You can enter Canada once. After leaving, you’ll need a new visa to return.
- Multiple-Entry Visa – You can enter and leave Canada as many times as you want during the visa’s validity period (up to 10 years or until your passport expires).
For most Nigerian applicants, multiple-entry visas are now the standard.
4. Who Needs a Canada Visitor Visa from Nigeria?
All Nigerian citizens require a visa to visit Canada — unless you hold a passport from another visa-exempt country. This includes Nigerians traveling for:
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Visiting friends and family
- Attending conferences or meetings
- Short-term business trips
- Medical treatment (with proof)
5. Requirements for Nigerians Applying for a Canada Visitor Visa in 2025
To apply successfully, you must prepare the following:
Personal Documents:
- Valid Nigerian passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date)
- Two passport photographs (recent, meeting Canadian visa photo specifications)
Financial Proof:
- Bank statements for the last 6 months
- Payslips or proof of business ownership
- Proof of assets (land documents, investments, etc.)
Travel-Related Documents:
- Flight itinerary (not necessarily a paid ticket)
- Hotel reservation or invitation letter from a Canadian resident
- Proof of relationship if visiting family or friends (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.)
Other Documents:
- Letter of explanation stating the purpose of your visit
- Employment letter (if employed) or business registration certificate (if self-employed)
- Any documents showing strong ties to Nigeria (family, job, property)
6. Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Visit the official Government of Canada immigration website and use the “Come to Canada” tool to confirm your eligibility.
Step 2: Create an Online Account
- Go to the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) portal
- Sign up using GCKey or a Sign-In Partner
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
- Complete the IMM 5257 – Application for Visitor Visa form online
- Answer all questions truthfully and accurately
Step 4: Upload Documents
Scan and upload all required documents in the specified formats (PDF, JPG, etc.).
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
In 2025, the Canada Visitor Visa fee for Nigerians is:
- Visa Fee: CAD 100 (~₦125,000)
- Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 (~₦106,000)
- Total: CAD 185 (~₦231,000)
Step 6: Submit Your Application
After payment, submit your application online.
Step 7: Provide Biometrics
You will receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL) to visit the Canada Visa Application Centre (CVAC) in Lagos or Abuja to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
Step 8: Wait for Processing
Track your application using the IRCC online system.
7. How Much Does a Canada Visitor Visa Cost in 2025?
The total cost is CAD 185 (~₦231,000), not including optional costs such as medical exams, courier services, or document translations.
8. Canada Visitor Visa Processing Time for Nigerians
As of August 2025, the average processing time is:
- Online Applications: 45–60 days
- Paper Applications: Not recommended due to longer processing times (90+ days)
9. Common Reasons for Visa Refusal & How to Avoid Them
- Insufficient funds – Always provide strong proof of finances
- Weak ties to Nigeria – Show proof of job, property, family
- Incomplete documents – Double-check before submission
- Unclear travel purpose – Clearly state your reasons in a cover letter
10. Tips to Increase Your Approval Chances
- Apply at least 3 months before travel
- Be truthful — false information can lead to a 5-year ban
- Provide organized and well-labeled documents
- Avoid buying non-refundable tickets before approval
11. After You Apply – What Happens Next
- You may be asked to attend an interview
- If approved, your passport will be requested for visa stamping
- If refused, you will receive a letter explaining why
12. Conclusion
Getting a Canada Visitor Visa from Nigeria in 2025 is achievable if you follow the right steps, prepare your documents carefully, and prove strong ties to Nigeria. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a smooth travel experience to Canada for tourism, family visits, or business.