A Solely Nigerian Guide On How to Travel to Canada
Canada is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and an important place for tourism. The country attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world every year who want to spend their winter holidays in such a marvelous place, in the midst of wonderful nature, breathtaking views and incredible architecture.
How Can I travel to Canada from Nigeria?
Travelling to Canada from Nigeria can be a bit of a process, but with the right information and preparation, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip:
Visa Requirements
An average Nigerian citizen needs a visa and international travel passport to visit Canada unless it’s a case of dual citizenship. In that case, your second citizenship must allow you visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry into Canada. That said, you will need to submit an application, pay a processing fee, and provide supporting travel documents such as a passport, proof of financial support—and in some cases, a letter of invitation.
You can apply online through the Canadian immigration website or visit their nearest consulate to submit your application, you should also note that you will be required to run some medical examinations like covid-19 and some vaccination tests.
Flights
Once your visa document is issued, the next step is booking your flight to Canada. Several airlines operate flights from Nigeria (including Air Canada) and Germany. Be sure to check multiple airlines and compare prices—this will help ensure that you get the best deal possible.
Accommodation
The country has many options for accommodation, including hotels and motels. You can also choose to stay with friends or family if you have any in Canada.
How Much Does Canadian Visas Cost?
It’s important to note that the cost of a Canada visa can vary depending on the type you’re applying for. They include:
- Visitor visa: This is also known as a tourist visa, available for people who want to enter Canada for tourism or to visit relatives, it usually cost about CAD $100 for a single entry visa and CAD $500 for a multiple entry visa.
- Student visa: If you’re planning to study in Canada, you’ll need to apply for a student visa, which costs about CAD $150.
- Work visa: If you’re coming to Canada to work, you must apply for a work visa. The cost of a work visa varies depending on the work you’ll be doing and how long you’ll stay in Canada. You can expect to pay anywhere from CAD $100 to CAD $1,000.
- Business visa: If you’re coming to Canada for business reasons, you’ll need to apply for a business visa, you can shop around with CAD $100 for a single entry and CAD $500 for a multiple entry visa.
In addition to the visa fees, other costs may be associated with applying for a Canada visa, such as the cost of a medical exam or a police clearance certificate. It’s important to factor in these additional costs when budgeting for your trip to Canada.
What are the Visa Requirements to visit Canada
Before applying for a Canadian visa, it is important to know whether you’re eligible and have the required documents necessary for the visa process which are listed below;
- Application form: You will need to complete the appropriate visa application form and pay the relevant fee.
- Passport: You will need to have a valid travel passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiration.
- Photographs: You will need to provide two recent passport-style photographs that meet the specific requirements for visa photos.
- Proof of financial support: You will need to provide evidence that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada. This can include bank statements, pay stubs, or a letter from someone who will be financially supporting you.
- Travel itinerary: You will need to provide details of your travel itinerary, including where you( the traveller) plan to stay and what you plan to do in Canada on arrival.
- Purpose of trip: You may need to provide information about the purpose of your trip, such as tourism, studying, or working.
- Medical examination: You may be required to undergo a medical examination if your stay in Canada will be longer than 6 months or if your occupation or activities may pose a risk to public health.
- Language proficiency test: As an applicant, You may be required to provide evidence of your language proficiency in English or French, if it is required for your intended occupation or study program.
- Letter of invitation: If you are visiting family and friends in Canada, they may be required to provide a letter of invitation and other supporting documents.
What is the cheapest way to move to Canada?
If you don’t have the money to fly to Canada, there are other ways of getting across the border.
There are several options available for people looking for a visa to travel to Canada, including the following:
Work program
Skills and experience are key to getting a job in Canada. If you’re under 35, you might be able to participate in the International Experience Canada program—it allows people from other countries to work in Canada for one year without restriction on what type of jobs they take.
If you have more than one year’s work experience in your field, or if it is considered a desirable job sector (such as nursing), u might qualify for an intra-company transfer visa or general skilled worker visa.
Study abroad program
Another option is to study abroad at one of Canada’s many universities, colleges and technical schools. Once your degree is complete, it may be possible for you to apply for renewal and permanent residency status through this program as well.
Immigration lottery
Every year, thousands of people enter the Canadian immigration lottery hoping they’ll win one of 1,040 permanent resident visas upon arrival which is available through this program annually. To be eligible for the lottery, you must have at least one year of full-time work experience in a skilled trade or profession. You’ll also need to meet basic health and security requirements, as well as show that you have no criminal record.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can Nigerians travel to Canada?
A: Nigerians can travel to Canada by obtaining a valid visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) from the Canadian government.
Q: What is an electronic travel authorization (eTA)?
A: An electronic travel authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals who are traveling to or transiting through Canada by air.
Q: How can I apply for an eTA to Canada?
A: You can apply for an eTA to Canada online through the official government website or through the assistance of a visa application centre in your home country.
Q: Do I need a visa to visit Canada as a tourist?
A: Yes, Nigerian citizens require a tourist visa to visit Canada for tourism purposes. You can apply for a Canadian tourist visa through the Canadian visa application centre in Nigeria.
Q: Can I travel to Canada if I have a valid U.S. visa?
A: Nigerians with a valid U.S. visa can travel to Canada without a tourist visa, but they will need to obtain an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) before their trip.
Q: What are the COVID-19 travel requirements for travelling to Canada?
A: Currently, travellers to Canada must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours before the departure time of their flight to Canada. They must also undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival. Please refer to the latest travel advisories and guidelines from the Canadian government for updated information.
Q: What are the requirements to enter Canada as an international student?
A: International students planning to study in Canada must have a valid study permit and other required documents. They should also check the Canadian government’s specific entry requirements for students.
Q: Do I need travel insurance to visit Canada?
A: While travel insurance is not mandatory to enter Canada, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances during your visit.
Q: How can I plan my travel to Canada?
A: You can plan your travel to Canada by researching the best time to visit, booking flights, accommodation, and creating an itinerary of places you would like to visit. It is also important to stay updated with travel advice and advisories from the Canadian government.
Q: What are the requirements to return to Canada as a Canadian citizen?
A: Canadian citizens must carry a valid Canadian passport or a Canadian travel document to enter Canada. It is advisable to check the entry requirements and travel information provided by the Canadian government before your return.