Are you a Nigerian citizen dreaming of working in Canada? Good news — Canada is actively welcoming skilled workers from Nigeria through several work visa programs. Whether you’re a professional, tradesperson, or recent graduate, there’s a pathway for you.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to get a Canadian work visa from Nigeria, the easiest routes, and how to apply successfully in 2025.
✅ Types of Canadian Work Visas for Nigerians
1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
This is Canada’s primary program for hiring foreign workers. To be eligible, a Canadian employer must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) showing that no Canadian is available to fill the job.
📌 Common Jobs for Nigerians Under TFWP:
- Healthcare professionals
- Truck drivers
- Welders
- Hospitality workers
2. International Mobility Program (IMP)
Unlike TFWP, the IMP does not require an LMIA. It’s designed for workers entering Canada under trade agreements, intra-company transfers, or significant cultural/economic benefit.
📌 Includes:
- Intra-company transfers
- Post-Graduate Work Permits (for Nigerian students)
- Spouses of skilled workers or students
✅ Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Canadian Work Visa from Nigeria
📍 Step 1: Get a Job Offer
You must secure a valid job offer from a Canadian employer. Websites to find jobs in Canada include:
Pro Tip: Focus on LMIA-approved employers.
📍 Step 2: Employer Applies for LMIA (if required)
Your employer must apply for an LMIA through Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
📍 Step 3: Apply for a Work Permit
Once you have a positive LMIA (or IMP eligibility), apply online through the IRCC Portal.
🗂️ Required Documents:
- Valid passport
- Job offer letter
- LMIA (if applicable)
- Proof of qualifications
- IELTS results (if requested)
- Police clearance certificate
- Biometrics
📍 Step 4: Attend Biometrics and Visa Interview (if required)
Biometric data is collected at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Nigeria:
- Lagos or Abuja
🔗 Canada Visa Application Centre Nigeria
✅ Can You Apply Without a Job Offer?
Yes — via programs like:
- Express Entry – Federal Skilled Worker
(You can immigrate and then work) - Post-Graduate Work Permit
(If you study in Canada first)
✅ Top In-Demand Jobs in Canada for Nigerians (2025)
Here are sectors with high demand for foreign workers:
| Sector | Sample Jobs | Average Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | Nurses, PSWs | $60,000–$100,000 |
| Transportation | Truck Drivers | $55,000–$80,000 |
| Construction | Welders, Carpenters | $50,000–$75,000 |
| Tech/IT | Software Developers | $70,000–$120,000 |
| Agriculture | Farm Workers, Packers | $30,000–$45,000 |
✅ Work to Permanent Residency: Yes, It’s Possible
Many Nigerians start with a work permit and later apply for permanent residence through:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
- Atlantic Immigration Program
🎯 Final Tips for Nigerian Applicants
- Take the IELTS General Training test to boost eligibility
- Watch for job scams — only apply through trusted websites
- Check your eligibility using the Come to Canada tool
📌 Conclusion
Yes, Nigerian citizens are absolutely eligible to work in Canada in 2025. By securing a valid job offer and applying through the right visa stream, you can build a better future in one of the world’s most welcoming countries.
