Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)
For Nigerians who want to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, or short business trips.
Application Fee
CAD $100 (single/multiple entry) + CAD $85 biometrics fee
Processing Time
4-8 weeks (varies; online applications can be faster)
- 1Valid Nigerian passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your planned stay
- 2Strong ties to Nigeria (employment, family, property, business)
- 3Sufficient funds to cover your stay in Canada
- 4Clear purpose of visit (tourism, family visit, business meetings)
- 5Intent to leave Canada before your visa expires
- 6No plans to work or study in Canada
- 7No serious criminal record or immigration violations
- 8Good health (medical exam may be required for stays over 6 months)
- Insufficient or inconsistent bank statements — funds must look organic, not sudden lump-sum deposits
- Weak ties to Nigeria — officers must believe you will return home
- Vague or incomplete travel itinerary
- Not disclosing previous visa refusals (any country)
- Applying too close to your intended travel date
- Submitting blurry or incorrectly sized photographs
- Failing to pay the biometrics fee alongside the application fee
- Not including an invitation letter when visiting family or friends
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Check If You Need a Visa
Nigerians require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to enter Canada. Confirm requirements on the IRCC website before applying.
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eligibility.html - 2
Create an IRCC Account & Apply Online
Register on the IRCC secure portal and complete the online application form (IMM 5257). Online applications are faster than paper.
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account.html - 3
Pay Application and Biometrics Fees
Pay CAD $100 for the visa application and CAD $85 for biometrics online using a credit or debit card.
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Upload Supporting Documents
Upload all required documents (passport scans, bank statements, employment letter, travel itinerary, invitation letter if applicable) through the online portal.
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Give Biometrics
You will receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL). Book and attend a biometrics appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Nigeria.
https://www.vfsglobal.ca/canada/Nigeria/ - 6
Wait for a Decision
Processing typically takes 4-8 weeks. Track your application via your IRCC portal account. You may be asked to submit additional documents or attend an interview.
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Submit Passport for Visa Stamping
If approved, submit your passport to the VAC for the visa sticker to be affixed. It will be returned to you by courier or collection.