Canada has no doubt become one of the world’s top destinations for travel, study, work, and migration. It is also common knowledge that Nigerians are at the forefront. If you ask the average Nigerian their preferred countries to Japa, there is a high chance that Canada is one of them. From Nigeria, we have tourists traveling to Toronto and Vancouver; business professionals getting work visas, and families moving to Canada for good.
ALSO READ: Best Provinces in Canada for International Students
Just like other countries like the US and UK, it may be challenging to go through the Canada visa application process alone as this includes forms, requirements, fees etc. Needless to say, the entire process requires precision and experience. That is where My Japa Ltd, Nigeria’s top travel and visa application brand of choice, comes in.
This simplified guide simplifies all you need to know about getting a Canada visa in 2025. Everything like visa types, requirements, processing times, costs, and how My Japa makes every step effortless for you.
Why Nigerians want to ‘japa’ to Canada
According to its 2024 Government of Canada Immigration Report, over 57,000 Nigerians visited or immigrated to Canada in 2023. Here’s why Canada is still a top travel destination for Nigeria and the whole African continent:
- Safe and welcoming environment: Canada is the world’s third most peaceful country.
- Excellent education system: Top-notch schools for international students.
- Strong economy and job market: Semi-skilled and skilled workers are in demand.
- Breathtaking scenery: There’s plenty to explore like the Rockies, Niagara Falls etc.
- Clear migration process: Canada’s immigration and residency systems are clear and systematic.
Regardless of whether your objective is studying, employment, visiting family, or immigrating permanently, Canada has convenient solutions for you, especially when supported by guides such as My Japa Ltd.
Canada Visas Types (2025 Overview)
Canada has different categories under the visa system depending on the purpose of your visit. The following are the most sought-after types Nigerians apply for:
- Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV)
For holiday purposes, visiting families, work tours, or special events. Typically within 6 months validity at maximum.
Ideal for: Conference visitors, tourists, brief family visits.
- Study Permit
For students accepted into Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada.
Grants permission to study and, in most cases, work part-time during studies.
Note: My Japa partners with Ileiwe, Nigeria’s top study abroad agency, to process all study visa applications smoothly.
- Work Visa
For professional, skilled workers, and temporary foreign workers.
Includes:
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
International Mobility Program (IMP)
LMIA-based permits
Open Work Permits (for worker or student spouses)
- Permanent Residency (PR)
Routes include:
Express Entry (Skilled workers)
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Family Sponsorship
Start-up Visa Program
- Transit Visa
Must if you’re transiting through a Canadian airport to another location, especially if your layover is more than 48 hours.
- Super Visa
For grandparents and parents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, to allow extended visits (up to 2 years at one time).
- Business Visa
For entrepreneurs, business visitors, and investors to attend meetings or conferences.
ALSO READ: Affordable Provinces in Canada for International Students
What You Need to Get a Canada Visa from Nigeria (2025 Update)
To qualify for any visa to Canada, the applicants must meet general as well as specific requirements.
General Requirements
International passport valid
Completed visa application form (online from IRCC portal)
Evidence of funds (bank statement, pay slips, or sponsorship letter)
Passport size photographs (as per Canadian specifications)
Medical check-up (for long-term visas)
Police clearance certificate (for specific categories)
Biometrics (photograph and fingerprints)
Visa fee + biometrics fee
Specific Requirements
All categories of visa have some unique documents. For example:
Tourist Visa: Travel itinerary, hotel booking, letter of invitation (if visiting an individual).
Study Visa: Letter of acceptance, payment receipt for tuition, evidence of funds (at least CAD 20,635/year).
Work Visa: Job offer or LMIA approval.
PR Application: Educational credential assessment (ECA), IELTS, evidence of work experience.
Step-by-Step Application Guide to Get a Canada Visa from Nigeria
The Canada visa process is tedious but if done in the correct directions, it is straightforward and trustworthy. This is how My Japa takes you step by step.
Step 1: Determine the Right Visa Category
We first analyze your intention to travel and recommend the class of visa best suited to your situation.
Step 2: Organize Documents
Gather and verify your documents. My Japa provides a comprehensive checklist and verifies all the documents to ensure compliance with IRCC regulations.
Step 3: Submit Online Application
Create your profile on the IRCC website, complete the appropriate form, and attach your documents.
Step 4: Pay Fees
Visa fee: CAD 100 (₦100,000 approx.)
Biometrics fee: CAD 85 (₦60,000 approx.)
My Japa offers safe and proper payment processing.
Step 5: Give Biometrics
Visit the VFS Global Visa Application Centre in Lagos or Abuja for taking fingerprints and capturing a photo.
Step 6: Medicals (If Necessary)
Approved panel physicians will conduct your medical examination.
Step 7: Wait for Decision
Processing time depends on the visa category:
Visitor visa: 30–45 working days
Study visa: 6–10 weeks
Work visa: 8–12 weeks
PR application: 6–12 months
Step 8: Collect Your Passport
Once approved, your passport will be stamped, and you’ll receive a Port of Entry (POE) letter if applicable.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Canada Visa (2025)?
Processing time varies by type of visa and season.
Visitor Visa 4–6 weeks
Study Permit 8–10 weeks
Work Permit 8–12 weeks
Express Entry PR 6–12 months
Super Visa 6–8 weeks
Pro Tip: Submit ahead of time, at least 3 months before your proposed travel date. My Japa expedites turnaround by pre-verifying documents before submission.
Canada Visa Fees (2025 Update)
Visitor Visa 100 CAD – ₦100,000
Study Permit 150 – ₦150,000
Work Permit 155 – ₦155,000
Biometrics 85 – ₦60,000
Permanent Residency (EE) – 1,365 – ₦1,200,000
(Exchange rate: ₦1,000/CAD; subject to fluctuation)
Common Reasons for Canada Visa Refusal and How My Japa Helps You Avoid Them
Lack of sufficient evidence of funds
We guide on credible bank statements and sponsorship letters.
Ambiguous travel intention
Our professionals draft effective travel purpose letters based on your background.
Poor documentation
We review all documents required — from transcripts to invitations — for IRCC suitability.
Discrepancies in information
My Japa double-checks your information to prevent inconsistency that results in refusal.
History of prior refusal or breaks in travel history
We help you write effective visa reapplication statements to create credibility.
Can a Pregnant Woman Get a Canada Visa?
Yes, but with care.
Pregnant applicants can apply for visitor or study visas, but medical insurance and proof of financial stability are required. My Japa advises clients on the medical and legal implications to ensure smooth entry.
I. How My Japa Simplifies the Canada Visa Process
My Japa is not just a visa agency, we’re your strategic travel partner.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Personalized Visa Strategy – Tailored documentation, not templates.
Successful Record Testamonial – 98% success rate in all categories of visas.
Certified Immigration Consultants – Our professionals are well-versed with Canadian immigration laws.
Transparent Fees – No hidden fees or overpromising.
Complete Support – Visa guidance to booking your flight and pre-departure briefing.
Be it tourism, studying, or work, we structure your application to demonstrate genuine intent and suitability, what visa officers need to see.
Latest Canada Visa Updates (2025 You Should Be Aware Of)
Requirement of financial proof for students increased to CAD 20,635 (previously CAD 10,000).
Nigerians eligible for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) — faster processing.
Biometrics are required from all applicants.
Applications online only: No paper applications accepted.
Processing delays: IRCC suggests early application due to increased global demand.
Tips on How to Increase Your Chances of Obtaining a Canada Visa
Have a definite travel purpose (work, study, or tourism).
Show ties to Nigeria like property ownership, employment, or family.
Be financially viable; your bank statement must fund your trip.
Don’t provide false documents; IRCC excludes applicants for misrepresentation.
Use a professional consultant; My Japa’s services reduce risk dramatically.
My Japa’s Canada Success Stories
My Japa has helped Nigerians over the years secure various Canada visas- students, families, and entrepreneurs.
Our clients always enjoy faster approvals, winning appeals, and easy transitions. Many are now living, studying, or working in provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia, courtesy of structured, targeted applications handled by experts who understand what gets it done.
All stories tell of our commitment to bringing travel dreams to life, visa by visa.
Conclusion
Getting a Canada Visa in 2025 is not necessarily complicated and stressful. With accurate advice, legitimate documents, and expert support, your approval chances are significantly increased.
At My Japa, we simplify walking you through choosing the correct visa, filling out documents correctly, and carrying out each step with accuracy. Whether your aim is to travel, study, work, or migrate, we simplify visiting Canada, making it less complex, faster, and better.
