Canada, a nation of vast landscapes and diverse opportunities, holds a magnetic allure for many Nigerians. Situated in the northern part of North America, it offers the promise of short visits or the prospect of permanent residence.
In this post, we aim to equip you with the essential knowledge you need about Canadian visa types, the application process, and associated costs. Whether you're planning a brief stay or contemplating a long-term move, this information is vital for your journey.
Applying for a Canadian visa involves several methods, primarily online applications and the use of Visa Application Centres (VAC). It's worth noting that the special VAC in Nigeria ceased operations in 2016, leaving online applications and VAC as the available options.
To initiate your application online, you'll need access to a scanner or camera for creating electronic copies of your documents. Additionally, a valid credit or debit card is required for payment. Be sure to provide a functional email address in your application; this will be your channel for receiving messages from the Visa Office.
For those holding valid study or work permits and planning to leave and re-enter Canada, applying for a new visitor visa before departure is advisable.
How to Apply for a Visa from Nigeria to Canada
The application process is listed below:
1. Thoroughly review the application guide before completing your application form. Eligibility for a temporary resident visa must be established to avoid application rejection due to incorrect visa category selection.
2. Fill and complete your application form. For applicants under the age of 18, parental or guardian consent is mandatory.
3. Payment of application fees is the next step. If you opt for a paper application at a VAC, you'll be required to pay VAC service fees in addition to your application fees. These service fees are not included in the application fees.
4. Submit your application. In cases of family applications, it's advisable to send all documents as a single package. When submitting paper applications, biometrics (fingerprints and photographs) may be necessary. Instead of mailing your application, it should be submitted in person. VAC staff will review your completed application and verify fee payments before processing biometrics.
Ensuring you choose the correct visa category is of paramount importance; incorrect categorization could result in an unrecoverable application fee.
Visa Categories
1. Visitor's Visa
Typically, a visitor's visa, including a super visa, costs 100 $CAN per person. If travelling with family, simultaneous applications are recommended. A super visa permits parents and grandparents of Canadian residents to visit for extended periods - up to 2 years initially and subsequent entries for 6 months each.
2. Work Visa
For those pursuing permanent work opportunities, the visa application process differs from that of visitor visas. Various subcategories exist, including the Federal Skilled Worker Visa. This type assesses applicants based on factors like education, work experience, and language proficiency in English or French. Skilled workers must accumulate a minimum of 67 points out of 100 available points to qualify. A year of skilled work experience is also a prerequisite. Seek advice from an immigration specialist to determine eligibility.
3. Work Permit
Reserved for temporary work in Canada and requires a job offer approved by the Government Human Resources authorities through the Labour Market Impact Analysis (LMIA) process.
4. Canadian Experience Class Visa
Intended for individuals already living in Canada under a temporary work permit. Requires a minimum of 12 months of Canadian work experience and proficiency in English or French.
In other words, the Canadian Experience Class Visa offers a unique pathway to permanent residency for individuals already residing in Canada on a temporary work permit. Tailored for those with valuable skilled work experience in Canada, this visa category has specific eligibility criteria:
a.) Work Experience in Canada: To qualify for the Canadian Experience Class Visa, an applicant must have a minimum of 12 months of skilled work experience in Canada. This experience should be obtained while on a valid temporary work permit.
b.) Language Proficiency: Proficiency in either English or French is a vital requirement. Applicants need to meet the language requirements set by Canadian immigration authorities. Language proficiency is assessed through recognized language tests.
The Canadian Experience Class Visa is designed to reward individuals who have contributed to Canada's workforce and integrated into Canadian society through their employment. It provides a seamless transition from temporary to permanent residency, recognizing the value of their skills and contributions to the Canadian economy. This pathway not only offers stability and security but also underscores Canada's commitment to attracting and retaining skilled talent, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to build a long-term future in this diverse and welcoming country.
5. Student Visa
Pertaining to students worldwide intending to study in Canadian colleges or universities. Application follows acceptance into a Canadian institution. Proof of financial capability, including tuition and living expenses, is mandatory.
6. Federal Skilled Worker Visa
The Federal Skilled Worker Visa is a prominent category within the Federal Skilled Worker Category (FSWC). This particular application is tailored for individuals seeking to establish permanent residency in Canada. The evaluation of applicants is based on a comprehensive set of criteria, encompassing education, work experience, and proficiency in either the French or English languages. The application process for the Federal Skilled Worker Visa operates on a point system. Candidates accumulate points based on various qualifications, and these points collectively determine their eligibility. The maximum attainable score is 100 points. Typically, skilled workers are required to amass a minimum of 67 points in total to qualify for this visa category. Meeting or exceeding this threshold is pivotal for successful application.
Applicants must also possess at least one year of skilled work experience to be eligible for consideration. This work experience should be relevant to the candidate's field of expertise. Proficiency in either French or English is another crucial component of eligibility. Applicants must demonstrate their language skills through recognized language tests. Given the complexity of immigration processes and the significance of this decision, prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to seek guidance from immigration specialists. These experts can provide tailored advice and insights, helping individuals determine their eligibility under this program.
The Federal Skilled Worker Visa program represents Canada's commitment to attracting skilled professionals who can contribute to the country's growth and prosperity. By offering a clear pathway to permanent residency based on merit and qualifications, Canada continues to be an attractive destination for individuals seeking a brighter future and new opportunities.
Cost of Visa from Nigeria to Canada (based on category)
Work Permit
- Work permissions (including prolongations) for groups of three or more members: 465 $CAN.
- Open work permit (not job-specific): 100 $CAN.
- Restoring worker status: 355 $CAN (comprising restoring status fee of 200 $CAN and new work permit of 155 $CAN).
Student Visa
- Study permission (including prolongations) for one person: 150 $CAN.
- Restoring student status: 350 $CAN (comprising restoring status fee of 200 $CAN and new work permit of 150 $CAN).
Visitor Visa
- For one person: 85 $CAN.
- For a family: 170 $CAN.
- For a group (three or more members): 255 $CAN.
Self-Employed People
- Start-up visa fees: 1540 $CAN (comprising processing fee of 1050 $CAN and permanent residence right fee of 490 $CAN).
- Including spouse or partner: 1040 $CAN (comprising processing fee of 550 $CAN and permanent residence right fee of 490 $CAN).
- Including your spouse or partner (without fee for permanent residence right): 550 $CAN.
- Including a dependent child: 150 $CAN per child.
Federal Skilled Employees:
- Application costs: 1040 $CAN (comprising processing fee of 550 $CAN and fee for permanent residence right of 490 $CAN).
- Including your spouse or partner: 1040 $CAN (comprising processing fee of 550 $CAN and fee for permanent residence right of 490 $CAN).
- Including your spouse or partner (without fee for permanent residence right): 550 $CAN.
- Including a dependent child: 150 $CAN per child.
The path to securing a Canadian visa is a journey worth embarking on. Armed with this comprehensive knowledge, you can navigate the process with confidence, whether you seek adventure, education, or employment opportunities in the welcoming embrace of Canada.
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