If you’re considering moving from Nigeria to Canada, you may be wondering about the process and what to expect. In this article, we’ll provide some background information based on Johnson Ojo’s experience of moving to Canada from Nigeria.
The Johnson in question used an agent to help with the process, including admission to a Canadian university and the visa application process. He also had to undergo a medical examination and book a flight to Canada. Additionally, he had to search for housing off-campus, as on-campus housing was too expensive. We’ll provide some key takeaways to help you prepare for your own move.
If you would like to hear from the horse’s mouth, he’s a video by Johnson;
If you’d prefer to read all he has said in a simplified format to help your Canadian move as a student, continue reading
Below are the Canadian Student Visa Requirements for International Students from Nigeria;
Choosing a Migration Agent
If you are planning to migrate to Canada, choosing a migration agent can be a crucial step. Here are some tips on how to choose a migration agent:
- Do your research: Before choosing a migration agent, do your research and check their credentials. Look for agents who are registered with the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC).
- Ask for recommendations: You can ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have used a migration agent before. This can help you find a trustworthy agent who has a good track record.
- Check their experience: Look for agents who have experience in handling cases similar to yours. This can help ensure that they have the necessary expertise to guide you through the process.
- Check their fees: Make sure you understand the fees charged by the agent and what services they cover. You should also check if there are any additional fees that may be charged during the process.
- Communication: Choose an agent who communicates well and is available to answer your questions and concerns throughout the process. This can help you feel more confident and informed about the process.
Remember, choosing the right migration agent can make a big difference in your migration process. Take the time to do your research and choose an agent who is trustworthy, experienced, and communicates well.
Admission Process
If you’re planning to move from Nigeria to Canada for studies, you’d like to know about the admission process. In this section, we’ll go over the admission process as explained by Johnson who moved to Canada from Nigeria.
To begin with, Johnson used an agent to help with the admission process. The agent provided him with information about the admission process and the necessary documents. He provided the agent with his basic information and a WAEC scratch card. The agent then filled out the admission forms on behalf of the student. The admission process took only three days, and the school got back to Johnson with the admission letter on February 26, 2021.
After receiving the admission letter, Johnson and his family were not sure if they wanted to go abroad. However, eight months later, they decided to continue with the process and contacted the agent again to help with the visa application. The agent asked for some documents, including the admission letter, a statement of purpose, and proof of funds. Johnson wrote the statement of purpose himself with the help of some samples found online. The agent also asked for the Johnson’s passport and their parents’ passports.
The visa process started in December 2021, and the agent submitted the visa application on January 26, 2022. Johnson was worried about losing his admission if the visa process took too long, but luckily, he received a passport request five days after submitting his passport. he got his stamped passport back in just five days, and the travel preparations began.
When it comes to travel preparations, Johnson recommends carrying a lot of stuff, especially snacks and spices. He used Qatar Airways for his flight, but the price varies depending on the airline and the time of booking.
For housing, he looked for off-campus housing options. He searched on Facebook Marketplace and a website called Places 4 Students. He recommends doing proper research on housing options and understanding the Canadian rental system. Johnson ended up staying in a student residence, which includes utilities like gas, water, AC, heater, and Wi-Fi. The rent for such a residence can range from $600 to $800.
That’s all for the admission process. Remember, this is just one student’s experience, and your situation could be different.
Visa Application Process
Statement of Purpose
When applying for a Canadian visa, you will need to provide a statement of purpose, explaining why you want to study in Canada and what you plan to study. You will need to write this yourself, but you can find samples online to help you get started.
Proof of Funds
You will also need to provide proof of funds to cover your expenses while in Canada. This can include bank statements, scholarships, and other sources of income. Your parents can also provide financial support and will need to provide their own proof of funds.
Passport
You will need a valid passport to apply for a Canadian visa. Make sure your passport is up-to-date and has at least six months of validity remaining. You will need to provide your passport to your agent, who will submit it along with your visa application.
It is important to note that the visa application process can vary depending on your individual circumstances. It is recommended that you work with a trusted agent to help guide you through the process and ensure that all necessary documents are submitted on time.
Medical Examination
After submitting your visa application, you will need to undergo a medical examination. Your agent will likely advise you to complete this step as soon as possible. In Nigeria, you can get your medical exam done at the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Ikeja. The cost for the medical exam was around 40,000 Naira.
When you go for your medical exam, make sure to bring your passport and proof of payment. The IOM will provide you with a list of items to bring, so don’t worry about forgetting anything. After completing your medical exam, you will receive your results within two weeks.
If you pass your medical exam, you will need to wait for the results to be sent to the embassy. This process can take some time, so be patient. Once your medical exam results are received by the embassy, they will notify you if any additional steps are required.
It’s important to note that this process may vary for each individual, and the cost and requirements may change over time. Therefore, it’s recommended to consult with your agent or the embassy for the most up-to-date information.
Visa Approval and Passport Stamp
After submitting your visa application, you will need to wait for a response from the embassy. This process can take some time, but you can speed it up by ensuring that all the required documents are submitted on time. Once your application is approved, you will receive a passport request from the embassy. You will need to submit your passport along with the request to receive your passport stamp.
It is important to note that the passport stamp is a crucial document that allows you to enter Canada legally. Therefore, you should ensure that you keep it safe and secure at all times. Once you receive your passport stamp, you can proceed with your travel preparations. This includes booking your flights, arranging for accommodation, and packing your luggage.
When booking your flights, it is recommended that you do so well in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes. You can choose from a variety of airlines, depending on your budget and preferences. It is also important to note that the prices of flights vary depending on the airline and the time of travel.
Regarding accommodation, you can choose to stay on campus or off campus. You can search for housing options on various platforms such as Facebook Marketplace or your school’s website. It is important to research properly and understand the Canadian housing system to make an informed decision.
Once you have completed your travel preparations, you can proceed with your journey to Canada. Upon arrival, you will need to present your passport stamp to the immigration officials who will verify your documents and allow you to enter the country.
Congratulations, you have successfully completed the visa approval and passport stamp process!
Travel Preparations
When moving from Nigeria to Canada, there are several things you need to prepare for. Here are some tips to help make your travel preparations smoother:
- Admission: You can use an agent to help you with the admission process. Just provide them with your basic information and the required documents, and they will take care of the rest. Admission usually takes a few days to process.
- Visa: To apply for a visa, you will need to submit some documents such as your admission letter, statement of purpose, and proof of funds. You will also need to do a medical checkup and provide your biometrics. The visa application process can take several weeks, so make sure to start early.
- Flights: Book your flights in advance to avoid high prices. Consider using airlines such as Qatar Airways, and be prepared to carry a lot of snacks and spices with you.
- Housing: Research different housing options in advance, and consider staying off-campus to save money. Look for furnished apartments with utilities included to make your move easier.
Remember, everyone’s situation is unique, so your travel preparations may differ from others. Stay organized and plan ahead to ensure a smooth transition to your new home in Canada.
Booking a Flight
When planning to move to a new country, booking a flight is a crucial step. It is important to book your flight in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
In the case of moving from Nigeria to Canada, Johnson used Qatar Airlines for his flight. He booked his flight just two weeks before his travel date, which resulted in a higher price. Therefore, it is advisable to book your flight well in advance to get the best price possible.
Johnson also recommends carrying a lot of snacks and spices for the long journey. He did not mention any specific price for the flight as it varies from airline to airline and from time to time.
It is important to note that booking a flight is just one part of the travel preparations. It is crucial to also check the requirements for travel, such as visas, and make sure you have all the necessary documents before booking your flight.
Housing Search
On-Campus vs Off-Campus
When looking for housing in Canada, you have the option of staying on-campus or off-campus. Staying on-campus means living in a dormitory or apartment provided by your school. Off-campus housing refers to renting an apartment or house in the surrounding community.
Staying on-campus may be more convenient as it is closer to your classes and campus facilities. However, it can be more expensive than off-campus housing. Off-campus housing can offer more privacy and independence, but it may require a longer commute to campus.
Understanding the Canadian Renting System
It is important to understand the Canadian renting system when searching for housing. Rent in Canada is typically paid monthly and includes the cost of utilities such as water, gas, and electricity. Some landlords may also include internet and cable in the rent.
When searching for housing, you should consider the location, size, and amenities of the apartment or house. It is important to research the landlord and read the lease agreement carefully before signing it.
When searching for housing, you can use various resources such as Facebook Marketplace, school websites, and rental websites like Places 4 Students. It is important to do your research and understand the Canadian renting system to find the best housing option for you.