You can get your Canadian student visa from Nigeria prior to your travelling. Studying in Canada is a dream of many African students including Nigerians, a lot of Nigerians have been on the hunt to acheive their japa dream or to gain qaulity education. Canada has been a top pick for so many students due to her top-ranked universities, diverse culture, and post-graduation opportunities. To turn this dream into reality, you need a Canadian student visa from Nigeria, officially known as a study permit. In this guide, we will walk you through the process, requirements, and tips for a successful application in 2025.
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Steps in Obtaining Canadian student visa from Nigeria
A Canadian study permit allows you to live and study in Canada legally. It is a document that lets you stay during your studies. Alongside the permit, you’ll need a temporary resident visa (TRV) or eTA to enter Canada, which is issued automatically upon study permit approval.
1. Choose a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Before applying, you must get an admission letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI); a school approved by the Canadian government to host international students. So, the first step is looking for a Canadian university of your chooice and making application to your desired department. After applying, wait patiently for decisions on your application. You will always be notified via e-mails.
Top DLIs popular with Nigerians include:
- University of Toronto
- University of British Columbia
- University of Alberta
- York University
- Centennial College
- Fanshawe College
Find the full list of DLIs here: IRCC DLI List
2. Meet the Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a Canadian student visa from Nigeria, a provisional offer of admission must have been given from the institution you applied to either conditional or unconditional. you will be required to accept the admission and make a deposit so as to get the acceptance letter.
Here are the few tips:
- Have a letter of acceptance from a DLI.
- Prove you have sufficient funds to pay tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
- As of 2025, you need to show a minimum of CAD $20,635 per year for living expenses (outside Quebec).
- Have a valid passport and two passport-sized photos.
- Show proof of clean criminal record (police certificate).
- Undergo a medical exam from a designated panel physician.
- Demonstrate intent to leave Canada after your studies (unless you apply for PR later).
- Provide proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) where required.
3. Prepare the Required Documents
Before applying for Canadian student visa from Nigeria, you need to make available all the supporting documents ranging from the university degrees or transcripts (for postgraduate students) or proof of languages, SSCE result and other required documents.
Below are list of the documents needed when making your application.
- Acceptance letter from a DLI
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, sponsor’s affidavit, tuition receipt, scholarship letter, etc.)
- Valid international passport
- Immigration Medical Examination (IME)
- Police clearance certificate
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Passport photographs
- IELTS or TOEFL result (if applicable)
- Application fee (CAD $150)
4. Apply Online for the Study Permit
To begin your application for Canadian Student Visa from Nigeria, visit the IRCC website and create an account.
- Fill the study permit application form (IMM 1294).
- Upload all required documents.
- Pay the application fee and biometrics fee (CAD $85).
- Book and attend your biometrics appointment at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC).
VACs in Nigeria:
- Lagos: 16 Billings Way, Oregun, Ikeja.
- Abuja: 38 Lobito Crescent, Wuse II.
5. Processing Time and Decision
Applications made for Canadian student visa from Nigeria usually take about 8 to 12weeks processing, though it can vary.
Kindly note, some times there may be visa denial. However, this is usually rare if the applicant meet up with all the criteria. Common reasons include incomplete documentation, insufficient funds, or unclear study intentions. You can reapply after addressing the issues
- A Letter of Introduction (LOI)
- A visa (TRV) or eTA
6. Arrive in Canada and Start Your Studies
Upon arrival at a Canadian port of entry:
- Show your LOI and TRV/eTA to the border officer.
- The officer will issue your official study permit.
You are now legally allowed to study and work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
7. Post-Graduation Opportunities
One of the reasons people justle for Canadian student visa from Nigeria is the postgraduation opportunities. After completing your program, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) valid up to 3 years allowing you to gain Canadian work experience and even apply for Permanent Residency (PR) under the Express Entry or PNP programs.
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