Nigeria Visa RequirementsFor Canada passport holders
Canadian passport holders require a visa to enter Nigeria. The most convenient option is the Nigeria Visa on Arrival, available at Lagos and Abuja international airports, though the standard embassy visa is recommended for most travelers.
Canada passport holders require a visa to enter Nigeria.
Canadian citizens can apply for a Nigerian visa at the Nigerian High Commission in Ottawa or apply for the Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (Lagos) or Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (Abuja). For the VOA, you must pre-register online through the Nigerian Immigration Service portal before travel and receive a pre-approval letter. The standard embassy visa requires completing the online application form, paying the fee (approximately $200 USD equivalent), submitting your passport, a recent passport photo, proof of accommodation, a return flight itinerary, and a bank statement. Processing typically takes 5 to 10 business days.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Canada to Nigeria: What You Need to Know
Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and a major hub for business, culture, and commerce. Canadian citizens are not exempt from visa requirements and must obtain authorization before or upon arrival. The Government of Canada advises exercising a high degree of caution in Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping risks, particularly in the northeast and Niger Delta regions. Lagos and Abuja are the main entry points and offer the most developed tourist and business infrastructure.
Practical Tips
Carry sufficient USD cash for the visa fee if using the Visa on Arrival. The Nigerian naira (NGN) is the local currency; exchange money at official bureau de change locations and avoid street exchangers. Register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service before departure. Keep copies of all travel documents in a separate location from originals. Avoid traveling after dark in unfamiliar areas, and book reputable accommodation in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Canadians need a visa to visit Nigeria?
Yes. Canadian citizens are not visa-exempt for Nigeria. You can apply for a visa at the Nigerian High Commission in Ottawa or obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Lagos or Abuja airports, provided you pre-register online through the Nigerian Immigration Service portal before travel.
How much does a Nigerian visa cost for Canadians?
The Nigerian visa fee is approximately $200 USD. This applies to both the embassy visa and the Visa on Arrival. You should carry USD cash if using the VOA route, as card payments are not always available.
Is Nigeria safe for Canadian travelers?
The Government of Canada advises exercising a high degree of caution throughout Nigeria, and advises against all travel to the northeast (due to terrorism), the Niger Delta area, and several other regions. Consult the Government of Canada travel advisory for the latest regional risk assessments before travel.
What documents do I need to apply for a Nigerian visa?
You will need a valid Canadian passport (minimum 6 months validity), a completed online visa application form, a recent passport photo, proof of accommodation in Nigeria, a return flight itinerary, a bank statement showing sufficient funds, and payment of the visa fee.