How long does the Canada Study Permit take for Nigerians?

Typical processing time is 8–20 weeks after applying, plus the time needed to gather documents.

What does the Study Permit cost?

The government fee is approximately $110. Additional costs (translations, apostilles, insurance) vary by case.

Do Nigerians need a job offer for the Study Permit?

No. The Study Permit does not require a job offer from a Canada employer.

Can I bring my family on the Study Permit?

This visa does not directly cover accompanying family members.

Canada Study Permit for Nigerians

Last verified: August 31, 2026

Quick facts

Processing time: 8–20 weeks
Government fee: about $110
Start preparing: about 7 months before your move
Steps in the plan: 7
Need an apostille: None
Need a translation: None
Job offer: Not required

“Start preparing” covers gathering documents, the 8–20 weeks decision wait and two weeks of slack. Add apostille and translation costs to the government fee.

Overview

For students accepted at a designated learning institution. Most college and undergraduate applicants also need a provincial attestation letter (master's/doctoral at public DLIs exempt since Jan 2026). Show CAD 20,635 in living funds — a GIC is the standard route — plus full first-year tuition. The old SDS/Nigeria Student Express fast-tracks were discontinued in Nov 2024, and Nigerian files get extra document screening, so allow more time.

This page covers Nigerians. For every nationality we track, see the Canada Study Permit overview.

Requirements for Nigerians

Minimum annual income	No requirement
Minimum savings	$15,100
Job offer required	No
Degree required	No
Family can join	No
Path to permanent residency	No

Processing time & costs

Typical processing takes 8–20 weeks after applying. The government fee is approximately $110. Difficulty: 3/5.

Documents you'll need

Get acceptance from a DLI + provincial attestation letterLetter from a designated learning institution; most college and undergrad applicants also need a PAL or TAL.
Open a GIC account (CAD 20,635)Guaranteed Investment Certificate from an IRCC-approved bank, partly released on arrival and the rest monthly.
Pay first-year tuition & keep the receiptFull first-year payment alongside the GIC strengthens a Nigerian application.
Approved language testMeet the score your DLI program requires, via IELTS, CELPIP, PTE or TOEFL.
Submit the study permit application onlineSubmitted via an IRCC secure account with financial statements from established banks.
Give biometrics at the VACAt Lagos or Abuja, within 30 days of the biometric instruction letter.
Arrive, get the permit printed & enrollThe physical study permit is issued at the port of entry.

The full ordered checklist — with timing, dependencies, apostille and translation flags, and personalized due dates — is part of the paid plan.

Not moving yet?

The Study Permit takes about 7 months from first document to moving day. Tell us when you plan to move and we’ll email you once, on the day you should start.

Is the Study Permit right for you?

Answer 6 questions and see every visa you qualify for — free.

Check my eligibility

Frequently asked questions

How long does the Canada Study Permit take for Nigerians?: Typical processing time is 8–20 weeks after applying, plus the time needed to gather documents.
What does the Study Permit cost?: The government fee is approximately $110. Additional costs (translations, apostilles, insurance) vary by case.
Do Nigerians need a job offer for the Study Permit?: No. The Study Permit does not require a job offer from a Canada employer.
Can I bring my family on the Study Permit?: This visa does not directly cover accompanying family members.

Other Canada visas for Nigerians

Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker)

Other destinations for Nigerians

Canada visas for other nationalities

Always confirm requirements with the official government source. This guide is general information, not legal advice.