Long Wait Times for Canadian Visa Applications from Nigeria: Understanding the Delays

Many applicants from Nigeria, particularly those applying for a Canadian visa, have experienced extended wait times. This article aims to provide insight into the reasons behind the delays and offer guidance on how to proceed during the wait.

Understanding the Extensive Review Process

The key to understanding the long wait times for Canadian visa applications from Nigeria lies in the details of the application process. Visa applications from Nigeria are subject to extensive scrutiny due to historic issues of immigration fraud. As a consequence, the Canadian government must meticulously review every application, even those with biometric data, which requires considerable time and manpower.

For instance, if you have submitted your biometric data for a Canadian visa from Nigeria and have not received any response for 13 weeks, it is not uncommon. Biometrics alone do not determine the outcome of an application, and each case is assessed in minute detail. This thorough review process often results in a longer wait time, possibly stretching into several more months.

Immigration Backlog and Housing Shortages

Another reason for the prolonged wait times is the significant backlog of visa applications. Recently, the Canadian authorities have been receiving four times the number of visa requests that they can process monthly. This overload means that the processing time is extending beyond usual expectations.

Worsening the situation is the rising demand for housing. As the government realizes the shortage of affordable housing for its own citizens, it is likely to reduce the number of temporary work visa requests. This reduction means that even if you are in temporary work, it may be wiser to continue with your current role rather than making job changes.

Temporary Work Visa Adjustments

Remote work has also influenced the Canadian government's approach to visa granting. With the end of the post-Covid worker shortage in most parts of Canada, the focus is now on experienced construction workers. Additionally, the length of temporary work visas is being reduced to one year, making it harder to transition to permanent status.

Advice and Communication

While there's no guaranteed method to expedite your application, you can take the following steps:

Contact the Canadian Embassy: You can reach out to the Canadian Embassy office in Lagos for updates or if you have any questions about your visa application. Check Online Status: Regularly check your online application status for any updates. Show Patience: Remember that you are one of thousands of applicants. Each case must be individually reviewed, so the wait might be longer if your application is from a country notorious for fraud.

Lastly, keep track of your application and stay informed about any updates or changes in Canadian visa policies.

Conclusion

Although the wait times for Canadian visas from Nigeria may seem distressing, understanding the reasons behind the delays can provide some relief. The comprehensive review process and the current immigration situation in Canada are contributing factors to the prolonged wait. Keep in regular communication and be patient, as each case is unique and requires careful scrutiny.