The Nigerian’s travel guide: From New Zealand to Canada

Travelling from New Zealand to Canada as a Nigerian citizen requires careful planning around visas, flights, customs, finances, and practical living tips. This guide is tailored specifically for Nigerians living in New Zealand and highlights key differences compared to New Zealand passport holders.

The most important distinction: Nigerian passport holders must apply for a Canadian visa before travelling, regardless of their residency status in New Zealand.

1. Visa: The Most Critical Step

Unlike New Zealand citizens who can enter Canada with an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), a Nigerian passport holder, regardless of their resident status in New Zealand, must obtain a Canadian visitor visa before traveling. Your New Zealand residency status does not exempt you from Canada’s visa requirements. This is a crucial distinction that must be addressed well in advance of your travel date.

Let’s first clarify the eTA. New Zealand passport holders (citizens) must apply for an eTA online before boarding. It is a quick online process valid for multiple trips (valid for five years) but allows stays of up to six months per visit. New Zealand permanent residents (non-New Zealand passports) must apply for a Canadian visa at a consulate before travel. Nigerian citizens must obtain a Canadian visa before travel. Do not apply for an eTA. Your airline will deny you boarding if you show only a Nigerian passport with an eTA.

Watch to find out how I got a Canadian Visit Visa

The application process is managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), but you will interact with a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in New Zealand, such as VFS Global in Auckland, for administrative tasks like providing your biometrics. You can apply for the visa online through the official IRCC portal. Your application must be comprehensive to prove your intention to visit temporarily and return to New Zealand. Be thorough and accurate with all information to avoid delays or refusal. The application process typically includes checking eligibility, gathering documents, providing biometrics, and submitting your application.

Key documents are as follows:

• A valid Nigerian passport and must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
• Proof of your status in New Zealand is a crucial document. You must provide a clear copy of your valid New Zealand residence permit, work visa, or study permit. This helps demonstrate your strong ties to New Zealand, which is a key part of showing you will return.
• Proof of funds or financial support: This is a vital part of your application. You must convince the visa officer that you can support yourself financially during your trip. This can be done with bank statements (for the last 4 to 6 months), proof of income (such as a letter from your employer and pay slips), or a letter of financial support from a host in Canada.
• Proof of ties to New Zealand. This is a critical component of your application. You need to convince the visa officer that you have strong reasons to return to New Zealand after your trip. This can include evidence of property ownership or a long term lease agreement in New Zealand, evidence of family ties (e.g., birth certificates of children or elderly parents you care for), a letter from your employer confirming your permanent employment and expected return date, or a letter of enrollment if you are a student, indicating your expected graduation date.
• Purpose of visit: A detailed itinerary; two recent passport sized photographs. A police clearance certificate and medical examination may be required depending on your country of residence or intended length of stay.
• A letter of invitation if you are visiting friends or family. This letter must include the host’s details, relationship to you, and their status in Canada (like a copy of their Canadian passport or Permanent Resident card).

• Biometrics: You will be required to provide your fingerprints and a photo at a VAC, especially if you haven’t in the last 10 years. The biometrics fee is included in the total visa fees and is collected together with the application fee. After submission, you will receive a letter from IRCC with instructions on where and how to complete your biometrics. Book an appointment as soon as you receive the letter.
• Important Note: If the centre where you submit your biometrics is different from the centre where you collect your passport, you will need to pay a service fee to the Visa Application Centre where you collect your passport.

2. Flights from New Zealand to Canada

Direct flights from New Zealand to Canada are available on Air New Zealand, but they fly to Vancouver, BC. Other options may include layovers in the US (e.g., Los Angeles or San Francisco), Australia, a Pacific Island (e.g., Fiji) or Asia (e.g., Tokyo). Flight time is typically around 14 to 18 hours depending on layovers. You can choose any route that fits your budget and schedule.

💡 A note on US transit: If transiting through the US (like LAX/SFO/Houston), Nigerians need a US transit visa even if not leaving the airport.

Your flight will be checked by airline staff before you board. They will confirm that you have a valid Canadian visa in your passport. Without it, they are not permitted to let you on the flight. On arrival in Canada, be prepared for an interview with a Border Services Officer. They will review your documents and ask about the purpose of your trip, the duration of your stay, and how you will support yourself. Be ready to explain your purpose of visit, duration, and show proof of funds or a return ticket. Having your supporting documents organized and easily accessible is essential.

When I arrived Toronto, after transiting Los Angeles, I wasn’t asked to provide any supporting document. At border patrol in US, I was quizzed and escorted to collect and scan my bags. You can watch my travel to Canada here.

Customs and border tips: Declare all food items (meat, fish, plants, seeds, dairy), declare anything over CAD 10,000, and carry prescriptions for any medication.

3. Weather and Packing

Canada is a huge country and seasons vary. The weather is dramatically different from New Zealand. Pack according to the region and season you are visiting. The West Coast (Vancouver/BC) is mild and rainy in winter with comfortable summers. Central/Eastern Canada (Toronto/Montreal/Ottawa) has freezing snowy winters and hot summers. The Prairies (Calgary/Winnipeg) have very cold winters and windy plains.

Summer: Pack a mix of light clothing and a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

Winter: If you’re visiting in winter, especially in Eastern Canada, you will need serious cold-weather gear, including a warm coat, hat, gloves, scarves, and waterproof boots and jackets.

Regardless of the season, pack comfortable shoes for a lot of walking in big cities. Canada uses Type A/B plugs with a voltage of 110V, so you will need a universal travel adapter. Universal travel adapters and layers are a must.

Plan logistics, as transit times in big airports can be long, so hydrate and keep moving during layovers.

4. Finances and Practical Information

Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, with contactless payment being very common. ATMs are also readily available. Notify your New Zealand bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards being blocked. A reasonable daily budget for a mid range trip (excluding flights) is approximately CAD150 to CAD200 per person, covering accommodation, food, and activities.

Tipping is customary in Canada for services like dining in restaurants, getting a haircut, or taking a taxi. A tip of 15 to 20 percent is standard. Prices for goods and services in Canada often exclude sales tax (GST/PST/HST), which is added at the point of sale. This is a common practice that is different from what you are used to in New Zealand.

Other practical tips: Canadian healthcare is not free for visitors. Carry personal medications (with prescriptions). Always buy travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.

English and French are official languages. English is widely spoken while French is dominant in Quebec (Montreal/Quebec City), however, you will hear announcements in both languages especially when taking public transportation.

Canada is generally safe, but watch your belongings in crowded areas (Toronto, Montreal). Public transport is safe but expect delays in winter due to snow. Be cautious crossing US Canada borders if travelling by land, as strict checks apply. Nigerians will find large African and Caribbean communities, especially in Toronto.

5. Must-See highlights

🌊 Niagara Falls (Ontario) – iconic natural wonder.

🏙️ Toronto – CN Tower, diverse food scene, Nigerian restaurants.

🎨 Montreal – French culture, festivals, arts.

🌲 Vancouver – mountains, ocean, mild climate.

❄️ Banff & Lake Louise (Alberta) – turquoise lakes, Rockies, ski resorts.

In summary, quick pro tips for Nigerians in New Zealand heading to Canada: apply for the Canadian visa early, far in advance of your trip. If your route connects via the US, secure a US transit visa. Always carry both your Nigerian passport and NZ visa/permit when travelling. Book accommodation early, as Canadian cities can be pricey in peak seasons.

By following these steps and preparing your documents carefully, a Nigerian citizen with a New Zealand residency can have a smooth and successful trip to Canada.