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Let’s be honest: applying for a Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV) from Nigeria is not for the faint-hearted, especially If you’ve heard stories about refusals, missing documents, or long wait times; you’re not alone. But guess what? With the right knowledge and preparation, you can increase your chances of approval!

One important tip to note is that the success of your Canada  visit visa application depends on how strong your documents are because there is no interview for you to explain yourself further unlike the  USA where you have to attend a visa interview.

Truth is, we know how frustrating it can be to prepare for a visa application, dig up documents, prove you won’t “disappear” in Canada, and pray your bank statement makes sense to the visa officer. I(Lisa Agu) had gone through that! That’s why I’m breaking down the entire process step by step to help you navigate it with ease.

Step 1: Understand What a Canada Visitor Visa Is

A Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV) is a short-term visa that allows you to travel to Canada for tourism, visit family/friends, attend business meetings, or do short-term studies (less than 6 months).

This visa does NOT allow you to work in Canada. If that’s your goal, you need a work permit. You can switch your visit visa to a work visa, but it is not guaranteed, and the possibility might be very slim. I won’t advise anyone to take Jakpa to Canada  with VV.

Step 2: Check If You’re Eligible

Before applying, ask yourself:

1. Do I have a valid Nigerian passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond my intended stay)?
2. Can I prove that I will return to Nigeria after my visit (job, business, family, assets)?
3. Do I have enough money to fund my trip?
4. Do I have a clear reason for travelling (tourism, family visit, business)?
5. Am I free from any criminal record?
6. Do I have a good travel history (not mandatory, but it helps if you’ve travelled to the UK, US, Schengen, etc.)?

I must inform you that the biggest reason for rejection is the visa officer doubting that you’ll return to Nigeria. Your application must strongly show your ties to Nigeria, please.

Step 3: Gather Your Documents

Like I said earlier, the stronger your documents, the better the application

Ok, Let’s break it down:

Basic Documents

1. Valid Nigerian Passport
2. Two Passport Photos (White background, taken within the last 6 months)
3. Completed Visa Forms:
• IMM5257 (Visitor Visa Application Form)
• IMM5707 (Family Information Form)
4. Proof of Visa Fees Payment

5. Proof of Financial Support

A. Bank Statement (Last 6 Months) – Show you can cover your travel, stay, and expenses.
B.Payslips & Employment Letter (If employed)
C.Business Registration & Tax Documents (If self-employed)
D.Sponsorship Letter (If someone in Canada is hosting you and covering costs)

6. Proof of Ties to Nigeria

a. Employment Letter & Leave Approval (If employed)
b.CAC Business Registration & Tax Clearance (If self-employed)
c. Marriage Certificate & Birth Certificates of Children (If married with kids)
d.Property Documents (Land, house, investments)

7. Purpose of Visit Documents

i. Travel Itinerary – Flight bookings, hotel reservations, planned activities.
ii. Invitation Letter (If visiting family/friends) They should include their Canadian status and a copy of their passport/PR card.
iii.Conference/Event Registration (If attending a business event)

Remember that your bank statement must match your travel plans. If you claim you’re staying in a luxury hotel for two weeks but only have ₦500,000 in your account, it won’t make sense.

Step 4: Apply Online

All applications are done online via the IRCC portal. Here’s how:

1. Create an IRCC Account: Visit Canada’s Official Immigration Website and create an account.
2. Fill Out Application Forms (IMM5257 & IMM5707).
3.Upload Required Documents (Ensure they are clear and in PDF format).
4. Pay the Visa Fee –
• Visitor Visa Fee: CAD $100
• Biometrics Fee: CAD $85
• Total: CAD $185
5.Submit Your Application and wait for the Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL).

Please, and please, double-check your documents before submitting. A small mistake can cause a delay or rejection.

Step 5: Attend Your Biometrics Appointment

After submitting your application, you’ll receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL).

Go to the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Nigeria to submit your fingerprints and photos.

VFS Global Locations in Nigeria, I don’t know if the address is still the same, but it’s in Lagos and Abuja.

Lagos: 1st Floor, No. 16 Billings Way, Oregun Industrial Area, Ikeja
Abuja: No. 38 Lobito Crescent, Wuse II

What to Bring:
1.Passport
2. Biometric Instruction Letter
3.Appointment Confirmation

Book your biometrics appointment as soon as possible to avoid delays.

Step 6: Visa Processing & Possible Interview

Processing Time: Canada visitor visa processing from Nigeria typically takes 60-90 days but can be longer.

Very rarely, but there is a possible interview: You may be asked to attend an interview at the Canadian High Commission in Abuja. Be ready to explain your travel purpose, financial situation, and ties to Nigeria.

Track your application status online using your IRCC account.

Step 7: Passport Submission & Visa Decision

If your visa is approved, you will receive a Passport Request Letter (PPR).

Go to the VFS Global Office and submit:
1. Passport
2. Passport Request Letter
3.VFS Handling Fee

Once stamped, your passport will be returned with your Canada visa inside! 

If rejected, carefully read the refusal letter to understand the reason. You can reapply with better documents.

Step 8: Travel to Canada! 

Before you travel, ensure you have:
Your passport with visa
Proof of Funds
Return Ticket
Hotel Booking/Invitation Letter

Remember you still have the  Canadian Immigration border: Be ready to answer questions about your visit. Stay calm, answer confidently, and enjoy your trip!

Finally,
Applying for a Canada Visitor Visa as a Nigerian can be stressful, but preparation is key. If you follow these steps, your chances of approval will be much higher.

1.Submit strong financial proof
2.Show solid ties to Nigeria
3. Be honest in your application & interview
4. Double-check all documents before submitting

Have questions about the process? Let’s discuss this in the comments!

Save this post, I guarantee you will need it in future if not now.

Good luck

Source :Lisa Agu