by Looking to travel to Canada from Nigeria? Whether for study, work, business, or visiting family, here are the top 10 legal ways to enter Canada.
1. Visitor Visa (Tourist Visa / Temporary Resident Visa – TRV)
This is the most common route for short trips to Canada—for tourism, visiting friends/family, or business. Nigerians must apply in advance, showing proof of finances, travel plans, ties to Nigeria, and a valid passport. Applications are submitted online or via Visa Application Centres in Lagos or Abuja. Click here to apply
2. Study Permit (Student Visa)
Got a letter of admission from a Canadian school? You can apply for a study permit, which lets you study and live in Canada. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and potentially permanent residency. Click here to apply
3. Work Permit (Employer-Sponsored or Open)
If you secure a job offer from a Canadian employer, you can apply for a work permit—either employer-specific (requires LMIA) or open (e.g., as a spouse). This is a solid route to working legally in Canada. Click here to apply
4. Express Entry — Skilled Worker PR Pathway
For skilled Nigerians, Express Entry is a fast track to Permanent Residency (PR). It’s been used under programs like Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, or Skilled Trades. Points are based on age, education, work experience, language. Click here to apply
5. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Each Canadian province has its PNP, targeting people with skills or job offers in that region. Getting nominated gives you a major boost in Express Entry, adding 600 points toward PR. Click here to apply
6. International Experience Canada (IEC) – Working Holiday Programs
IEC allows young citizens of eligible countries to work and travel in Canada for up to 24 months, under schemes like Working Holiday and Young Professionals. Unfortunately, Nigeria isn’t currently a partner country—but you can explore options via Recognized Organizations. Click here to apply
7. Start-Up Visa Program (Entrepreneurs)
If you have a unique business idea and backing from a designated Canadian investor, the Start-Up Visa offers a work permit and a path to PR—perfect for entrepreneurial Nigerians seeking to build a business in Canada. Click here to apply
8. Business Visitor Visa / Self-Employed Persons Program
Business folk can enter Canada temporarily for meetings, conferences, or exploring investment opportunities. Meanwhile, artists or athletes may qualify under the Self-Employed Persons Program. Click here to apply
9. Family Sponsorship
If you have family members in Canada—like spouse, parents, or grandparents—they may be able to sponsor you for PR. This includes options like Super Visa and offers a direct route to living in Canada. Click here to apply
10. Canadian eTA or Visa Waiver (Not for Nigerians)
While citizens of visa-exempt countries can get an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to Canada, Nigerians do not qualify—so a regular visa is always required. Click here to apply
