How Long Does a Canada Student Visa Take in Nigeria?

Canada has become one of the nicest places to reside in around the globe. However, because of the variation in visa processing time, there’s one question everyone’s asking. How long Does a Canada student Visa take in Nigeria?

It is a valid question and before you pack your bags to leave the country, you should answer it. To satisfy your curiosity, this article will explore everything about the Canada student visa and its processing time.

Let’s dive in!

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Types of Canada Student Visas

Before we launch into the time duration for the Canadian student visa, let’s walk you through the different types of student visas available. When you’re applying from Nigeria to study in Canada, you’ll be dealing with two types of visas: the Study Permit and the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).

First, the Study Permit is your actual student visa which allows the privilege to live and study in Canada. On the other hand, the TRV is what you need to enter the country. You can think of it as some kind of visitor’s pass, but in this case, it is tied to your status as a student. In other words, the Study Permit allows you to stay and study while the TRV is what makes it possible for you to step foot in Canada. They are both important and that means you’ll likely be applying for both at the same time.

Eligibility Criteria: What are the things I need?

Before you go on to apply for a Canadian Student Visa, You should first check to know if you are eligible. There are a good number of requirements Nigerian students must meet.

First up, you’ll need a valid passport. That’s a given. Next, you must have proof of acceptance by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. This is an official letter from your Canadian school saying, “Yes, we’ve accepted you.”

But that’s not all. You also need to show that you have sufficient financial resources to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation. Proof can include bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsorship letters from family members. Additionally, depending on your specific case, you might also need to undergo a medical examination to ensure you’re in good health.

If you meet all these criteria, congratulations! You’re one step closer to your Canadian dream.

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Application Process: What are the Steps Involved?

Now that you know you’re eligible, let’s talk about how to apply. The application process can seem a bit daunting, but breaking it down step by step makes it manageable.

Read also – How to Get a Visa Sponsorship Job in Canada

Step 1: Gather all your documents. This includes your passport, acceptance letter, proof of financial resources, and any other required documents. Ensure that everything is complete and up-to-date.

Step 2: Decide whether to apply online or on paper. Applying online is generally faster and more convenient, but if you prefer, you can opt for a paper application. However, note that paper applications can take longer to process.

Step 3: Submit your application along with the required fees. As of now, the fee for a Canadian study permit is CAD 150. You’ll also need to submit your biometrics (fingerprints and photos) as part of the process. Once that’s done, you’ll receive a confirmation that your application has been received.

Step 4: Wait for further instructions. The visa office may ask for additional documents or schedule an interview. Be sure to respond promptly to avoid any delays.

Visa Processing Time: How long does it Take?

Now let’s talk about how much time the process takes. On average, it takes about 3 months to process a Canadian student visa in Nigeria. However, this is just an estimate. The actual time can vary and this is dependent on the factors that we will discuss later.

One exciting development is the Nigeria Student Express (NSE) program. This is a pilot initiative aimed at fast-tracking the visa process for eligible Nigerian students. If you meet the requirements for the NSE, your application could be processed much faster. The NSE offers a processing time similar to the Student Direct Stream (SDS), which is used in other countries. So, if you’re eligible, definitely consider applying through this program.

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Factors Affecting Processing Time of Canadian Student Visa

Various factors affect and can influence how long it takes you to get your Canadian student visa. One of the major factors which affect everyone on the table is the number of applications. You are not the only one who is seeking a Canadian Student. During peak times like the beginning of an academic year, the visa office may be flooded with multiple applications which may affect your processing time.

Another factor that affects the processing time is the completeness of your application. Your application can be delayed if any documents are missing or if additional information is required. In a scenario where you’re required to undergo a medical examination or attend an interview, your processing time might take longer.

Furthermore, the time it takes to process your visa can be affected by your delay in submitting your biometrics. You have to follow all instructions and carefully give an answer to any requests from the visa office to avoid delays.

Tips for a Smooth Application Process

To help you scale through the visa application process, here are some tips that you can employ:

• Start early: Do not apply late and ensure to start on time because it gives you sufficient time to gather all the necessary documents and information that you need. In this way, you can tackle what comes up promptly without a hitch.
• Double-check your documents: Ensure that all of your documents are up-to-date with the correct information. Do not submit files with the wrong information as they can lead to delays or rejection.
• Submit biometrics promptly: The moment you are asked for biometrics, do not hesitate. This is because, the faster you do it, the better for the success of your application.
• Monitor your application: Do well to keep an eye on your application status and be ready to give a response when called upon from the visa office. By responding quickly, you can help keep your application moving forward.
• Consider the NSE program: If you’re eligible for the Nigeria Student Express program, take advantage of it. This could significantly reduce your processing time.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, obtaining a Canadian student visa takes about three months. There are times when it goes above three months and this is because the process can be affected by factors. 

However, by understanding the process and following through, you can be assured of getting your visa. Additionally, you can increase your chances of a smooth visa application by following the tips provided. You should not give up or be discouraged by the processing time frame. 

FAQs: How Long Does a Canada Student Visa Take in Nigeria?

1. How much does it cost to apply for a Canada student visa from Nigeria? 

It costs CAD 150 to apply for the Canadian student visa and this doe not include other charges. Additional fees may apply for biometrics and medical exams. Ensure you budget for these costs.

2. Can I work while studying in Canada with a student visa? 

You can work while studying in Canada on a part-time basis, up to 20hrs per week. You can also choose to work full-time during school breaks which helps you to manage your living expenses.

3. What happens if my Canada student visa is denied? 

If your Canadian student visa is denied, you can reapply. Most importantly, in the case of denial, you’ll receive a letter informing you of the reasons for the denial. You can reapply after addressing the issues mentioned. Alternatively, you can appeal the decision.

4. How long before my course starts should I apply for the visa? 

To avoid any form of hiccup, it is only right that you apply at least five months before time. By doing this, you will give room for ample time and not get things rushed. This will also help you eliminate stress.