Planning a journey from Nigeria to Canada requires understanding the specific entry requirements. While many countries qualify for the simple Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), the rules for Nigerian citizens are unique and conditional.

This comprehensive guide answers the top search queries, offering clear and actionable information on how to apply for a Canada eTA from Nigeria. It ensures you meet all the official content guidelines, making the process as straightforward as possible for Nigerian travelers. Whether you’re traveling for business, tourism, or transit, this guide will help you navigate the eTA application with ease.

What is a Canada eTA and who needs it from Nigeria?

The Canada eTA is an electronic travel document linked digitally to a passport. It is a mandatory requirement for most foreign nationals who are visa-exempt and flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport. It permits short stays, typically up to six months, for tourism or business.

The Eligibility for Nigerian Citizens (Crucial Distinction):

Nigeria is a visa-required country. This means the standard requirement for Nigerian passport holders is a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), or visitor visa.

However, a specific exemption allows certain Nigerian citizens to apply for an eTA instead of a TRV, provided they meet two strict conditions:

1. Method of Travel: You must be travelling to Canada by air.
2. Historical Status: You must have either held a Canadian visitor visa (TRV) in the last ten (10) years OR currently hold a valid United States (U.S.) nonimmigrant visa.

If you do not meet BOTH of these criteria, you are NOT eligible for the eTA and must apply for a traditional Visitor Visa (TRV).

How can Nigerian citizens apply for a Canada eTA?

If you meet the eligibility criteria, the eTA application process is quick, simple, and conducted entirely online 

Can I apply for a Canada eTA online from Nigeria?

Yes, the application is exclusively online. You must use the official Government of Canada (IRCC) website.

• Gather Materials: Have your valid passport, a valid email address, and a credit or debit card ready for the required payment.
• Complete Accurately: Fill out the required personal, passport, and travel details. The form must be completed in one session.

• Pay the Fee: Submit the required, non-refundable application payment.
• Submit and Check Email: Submit the form and wait for the electronic response.

What are the requirements for a Canada eTA from Nigeria?

The fundamental requirements for eligible Nigerian citizens are meeting the Canada eTA document requirements for approval.

• A valid Nigerian passport.
• A valid email address for communication.
• A credit or debit card for the non-refundable application payment.
• Proof (if requested) that you meet the core eligibility: a previous Canadian TRV or a current, valid U.S. nonimmigrant visa.

How long does it take to process a Canada eTA from Nigeria?

The processing time for a Canada eTA can vary depending on the service option selected, offering Nigerian applicants flexibility based on how urgently they need their travel authorization. Understanding the Canadian eTA Processing Time is key to ensuring your eTA is approved in time for your trip.

• Normal Processing: Typically completed within 1–6 working days, this option is suitable for travellers applying ahead of their planned departure date.
• Rush Processing: This faster option provides a quicker turnaround time of 1–3 working days, ideal for travellers with upcoming flights.
• Super Rush Processing: For urgent travel needs, Super Rush Processing delivers results within 24 hours, making it the fastest available option.

How long is a Canada eTA valid for Nigerian citizens?

An approved eTA is valid for:

• Up to five (5) years from the date of issue, OR
• Until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

If your passport expires before the five-year mark, your eTA becomes invalid, and you must apply for a new one using your new passport.

Is the Canada eTA valid for multiple entries?

Yes. The eTA is a multiple-entry document. You can use it for numerous short trips to Canada until it expires, provided you remain admissible.

Can families from Nigeria apply together for a Canada eTA?

No. Each eligible Nigerian traveler, including all children, must complete a separate online eTA application and submit the individual payment. There is no combined family application form for the eTA.

What common mistakes should Nigerians avoid when applying for a Canada eTA?

To ensure a smooth application process:

• Applying Without Eligibility: Do not apply for an eTA unless you definitively meet the criterion of a previous Canadian TRV or a current U.S. nonimmigrant visa. If you are ineligible, the application will be refused.
• Typographical Errors: Double-check that your passport number, name, and dates of birth entered on the form exactly match your passport details. Errors will render the eTA invalid for travel.

Do Nigerian travelers need a visa if they have a Canada eTA?

If you are an eligible Nigerian citizen and have a valid, approved Canada eTA, you do not need a separate Visitor Visa (TRV) to fly to or transit through Canada. The eTA serves as your required travel authorization for air entry.

Crucial Note: If you plan to enter Canada by land (e.g., driving from the U.S.) or by sea, the eTA is not valid, and you would need a Visitor Visa (TRV).

Can I travel to Canada for tourism, business, or transit with an eTA from Nigeria?

Yes. The eTA is issued specifically for short-term, temporary visits, including:

• Tourism: Sightseeing, visiting friends and family.
• Business: Attending meetings, conferences, or trade shows.
• Transit: Changing flights at a Canadian airport en route to a third country.

The eTA does not permit employment or long-term study in Canada.

What should I do if my Canada eTA application from Nigeria is refused?

If your eTA application is refused, it confirms that you do not qualify under the special eligibility exemption.

Your next action must be to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV):

1. Do Not Re-apply for an eTA: A second attempt will also be refused.
2. Initiate TRV Application: You must now apply for a traditional Visitor Visa (TRV). This process is more detailed, requires extensive supporting documentation (proof of funds, ties to Nigeria), and requires the submission of biometrics at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Nigeria.

Do I need to print my Canada eTA when traveling from Nigeria?

No. The Canada eTA is an electronic authorization, digitally linked to the passport used for the application.

While you may save the confirmation email for your records (it contains your eTA number), you do not need to print it. Airline staff will electronically confirm the validity of your eTA when you check in for your flight in Nigeria.

Conclusion: Ensuring Your Smooth Entry

The eTA program offers a highly efficient path to Canada for those Nigerian travelers who meet the specific previous visa requirements. 

By confirming your eligibility and using the official application channels, you can secure your travel authorization quickly and focus on preparing for your trip.