Canada is one of the most popular destinations for Nigerians seeking work, study, or permanent residency. With various visa programs available, some are easier to obtain than others. This guide explores the easiest Canadian visas for Nigerians, including study permits, work visas, visitor visas, and permanent residency pathways.
Processing Time: 1-3 months
The Visitor Visa is one of the easiest Canadian visas to obtain for Nigerians. It allows you to visit Canada for up to 6 months for tourism, business meetings, or visiting family.
✔️ Valid Nigerian passport
✔️ Proof of funds for your stay
✔️ Ties to Nigeria (job, property, family)
✔️ Travel itinerary & accommodation details
Apply here: Canada Visitor Visa
Processing Time: 6-12 weeks
Best for: Nigerians seeking education in Canada
A Study Permit allows Nigerians to study in Canada and is an easy pathway to permanent residency after graduation.
✔️ Admission letter from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
✔️ Proof of financial support (minimum CAD $10,000 per year)
✔️ Ties to Nigeria (to show intent to return after studies)
✔️ Medical exam & police clearance
Bonus: After graduation, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and later transition to Permanent Residency (PR) through Express Entry.
Apply here: Canada Study Permit
Processing Time: 3-6 months
Best for: Nigerians with a Canadian job offer
A Work Permit allows Nigerians to legally work in Canada. The easiest way to get this visa is through a job offer from a Canadian employer.
✔️ Employer-Specific Work Permit – Requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from the employer.
✔️ Open Work Permit – No LMIA needed (e.g., for spouses of international students or skilled workers).
Find jobs in Canada: Job Bank Canada
Processing Time: 6-12 months
Best for: Skilled workers looking for PR
The Express Entry System is the fastest way for skilled Nigerians to become Canadian permanent residents.
✔️ Age: Preferably under 35
✔️ Education: Degree, diploma, or trade certification
✔️ Work Experience: At least 1 year in a skilled job
✔️ English Proficiency: IELTS score of at least CLB 7
✔️ Proof of Funds: CAD $13,757 (for a single applicant)
Bonus: If you get a Provincial Nomination (PNP), you receive 600 extra points, increasing your chances of PR approval.
Check eligibility & apply: Express Entry
Processing Time: 12-16 months
Best for: Nigerian entrepreneurs & business owners
The Start-Up Visa is ideal for Nigerians who want to move to Canada by launching a business that creates jobs.
✔️ A qualifying business idea
✔️ Investment from a designated Canadian investor
✔️ English/French proficiency (CLB 5 or higher)
✔️ Sufficient settlement funds
Apply here: Canada Start-Up Visa
Processing Time: 6-12 months
Best for: Skilled workers wanting to settle in a specific province
Each Canadian province has its own PNP program that allows Nigerians to immigrate based on job demand.
✔️ Ontario PNP (OINP): Targets IT, health, and finance professionals.
✔️ Alberta PNP: No job offer required for Express Entry candidates.
✔️ Saskatchewan PNP: Low IELTS score requirement (CLB 4+).
✔️ Manitoba PNP: Prior education or work experience in Manitoba increases chances.
Check PNP options: Canada PNP Programs
For Nigerians, Canada offers multiple easy visa options, from short-term visitor visas to permanent residency programs.
✔️ Visitor Visa – For tourism & short visits.
✔️ Study Permit – For Nigerian students wanting to study in Canada.
✔️ Work Permit – For those with a Canadian job offer.
✔️ Express Entry – Best for skilled professionals.
✔️ PNP (Provincial Nominee Program) – Easiest PR route for Nigerians.
✔️ Start-Up Visa – Ideal for entrepreneurs & investors.
Tip: If you want to move to Canada quickly, apply for a Study Permit or Express Entry with a high CRS score to improve your chances of approval.
