Nigerians planning to pursue their studies in Canada may now have to allow additional time for their study permit applications to be processed.
The latest figures from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) show that the estimated processing time for Nigerian study permit applications has increased from eight to nine weeks.
The immigration department updated its temporary residence processing estimates on August 19, 2026, covering several categories, including study permits, work permits, visitor visas and Super Visas.
Study permit processing time increases
For Nigerian applicants, the most notable change is the additional week added to the estimated processing period for study permits.
The estimated processing time for Nigerian work permit applications, however, remains at nine weeks.
Changes for applicants from other countries
The latest IRCC figures also recorded changes in processing times for applicants from other countries.
For Pakistani applicants seeking work permits, the estimated waiting period fell from 12 weeks to seven weeks. However, the processing time for visitor visas from Pakistan increased from 61 days to 75 days.
Applicants from the United States applying for Super Visas are also facing longer estimated waiting times, with processing increasing from 123 days to 138 days.
Why processing times can change
IRCC has stressed that its published processing times are estimates and should not be regarded as guarantees.
According to the department, processing periods can vary depending on the number of applications awaiting assessment, available processing capacity and anticipated application volumes.
Applications may also take longer to process if they are incomplete, involve complicated circumstances or require additional verification.
Advice for Nigerians planning to study in Canada
The new nine-week estimate means prospective Nigerian students should factor the longer processing period into their academic and travel plans.
IRCC advises international students to submit their study permit applications as soon as they receive their letters of acceptance.
The department also warned that actual processing times may vary depending on the visa office handling an application and the individual circumstances of each applicant.