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Canada visitor visa from Nigeria

The Lagos visa office publishes its own checklist for Nigerian visitor visa applicants, and it asks for more than the standard IRCC list. Missing items can mean a refusal, not just a delay.

Written by NextMovePath editorial teamLast updated:


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At a glance

IRCC processing time from Nigeria93 days (Visitor visa (applying from outside Canada))IRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times
Visa application centresLagos and AbujaSource: IRCC: Find a visa application centre
Bank statements the Lagos office asks forPast 6 months, plus pay slips for the last 3 months if employedSource: IRCC Lagos visa office: Additional document checklist, visitor visa (IMM 5873)
Employment letterDated within 2 months of applying; must state occupation, duties, position, salary, allowances, years of service and approved leave datesSource: IRCC Lagos visa office: Additional document checklist, visitor visa (IMM 5873)
FeesCAN$100 visa fee plus CAN$85 biometrics per personSource: IRCC: Fee list

How much bank balance do Nigerians need for a Canada visit visa?

IRCC sets no fixed minimum for visitors. You must show enough money for flights, stay and daily costs, and prove where it came from. The Lagos office asks for six months of bank statements plus proof of income such as pay slips, a pension statement, business registration or investment statements.

IRCC looks at where your money came from, not only the balance. If a large deposit arrived shortly before you apply, explain it in writing and attach the proof, such as a sale agreement or salary record.

What must a Nigerian employment letter include?

The Lagos checklist is specific. The letter must be from your current employer, dated within two months of your application, and state your occupation, job description, position, salary, allowances, years of employment and the dates of your approved leave. Add your last three months of pay slips.

What if someone else is paying for my trip?

Provide a signed support letter from that person, a copy of their passport or photo ID, their bank statement, proof of where their money comes from such as an employment letter or business registration, and a short description of how you are related. The Lagos office wants these dated within six months of applying.

Do I need an invitation letter to visit family in Canada?

Yes, if you are visiting a person. The letter should give the purpose, dates, length of stay and your host’s contact details. Including your host’s immigration status is optional under the Lagos checklist, but a copy of their Canadian passport, PR card or permit makes the visit easier to verify.

Should I buy my flight ticket before the visa is approved?

No. The Lagos office asks for a provisional airline booking only and says purchased tickets are not required or recommended. Do not make final travel arrangements until you have the visa. A refused application does not refund the flight, and a paid ticket does not strengthen your file.

Why applications from Nigeria get refused

These are the grounds IRCC officers most often write in refusal letters for this kind of application. They are typical grounds, not statistics. Fix them before you apply, not after.

  • The officer was not satisfied you will leave Canada at the end of your stay, based on your ties to Nigeria.
  • Your financial documents did not show enough money or a clear source for it.
  • The purpose of your visit was not consistent with the documents provided.
  • Your employment or business evidence was incomplete or could not be verified.
Not satisfied you will leave CanadaInsufficient fundsPurpose of visitFamily ties in Canada and at home
Already refused? Read what your refusal letter means

Visitor visa from Nigeria: FAQ

No. IRCC warns against anyone who claims they can speed up a biometrics appointment for a fee. VACs do not charge for the appointment itself; it is covered by the CAN$85 biometrics fee.
Yes. The Lagos checklist asks for a marriage certificate and birth certificates for each family member, whether or not they are travelling with you.
Your application is refused, the refusal is recorded in Canada’s immigration database, and you can be barred from applying for five years for misrepresentation.

Official sources

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This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules, fees and document lists change often. Confirm current requirements on canada.ca or with a licensed Canadian immigration representative (RCIC or lawyer) before you apply.