There have been notable visa policy shifts in Canada since the beginning of 2025 that have significantly affected a wide range of international applicants, from students to skilled workers, family reunification applicants to humanitarian migrants. Understanding these changes as a Nigerian is crucial to making informed migration decisions.
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the goal is to create a more sustainable and responsive immigration system. However, these new policies have reshaped eligibility, timelines, and pathways for various classes of migrants.
The following breakdown highlights the impact of these shifts on international travellers and residents, particularly those from Nigeria.
Students and Study Permit Applicants
One of the most critical visa policy shifts in Canada for 2025 is the cap on study permit applications. In January, the Canadian government limited study permit submissions to 550,162 for the year, with approvals reduced to 437,000, a 10% cut from 2024 figures. This change has deeply affected Nigerian students, who consistently rank among the top source countries for international students in Canada.
The reduced quota means fewer available spots, which automatically means getting a study permit is more competitive than last year. International applicants from institutions with low Designated Learning Institution (DLI) compliance ratings may face even lower chances of approval. Additionally, high rejection rates could jeopardise future eligibility for immigration streams such as the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Express Entry.
Skilled Workers and Express Entry Candidates
Among the significant visa policy shifts in Canada is the removal of Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for arranged employment, which took effect in March 2025. Previously, Nigerian professionals could boost their Express Entry scores by securing valid job offers supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Without these points, many now find themselves with lower CRS scores, and this has greatly reduced their likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
Additionally, category-based selection has been revised to prioritise French-language proficiency, healthcare, and trade occupations. Thus, international applicants outside these priority categories might find it difficult to enter Canada through the skilled worker route unless they gain Canadian experience or transition into high-demand fields.
However, Nigerians who speak French are at an advantage under Canada’s Francophone Immigration Strategy and are encouraged to consider the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP) as a viable pathway. These policy updates, detailed on the Canada Express Entry page, reflect Canada’s evolving immigration priorities and demand greater adaptability from Nigerian applicants.
International Graduates and PGWP Holders
Another significant development under the 2025 visa policy shift in Canada is the revision of eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). In a progressive move, Canada removed field-of-study restrictions for college bachelor’s degree holders, and this has enabled more Nigerian students to qualify for open work permits regardless of their academic discipline.
However, the change on June 25, 2025, also came with a major update to the list of eligible fields. 119 new programs were added, while 178 were removed. For Nigerian students currently enrolled in affected programs, this means their PGWP eligibility could be compromised unless they applied before the policy change and were grandfathered in. The PGWP remains a critical pathway to permanent residency through Express Entry, so any limitation on access to this permit directly influences long-term immigration outcomes.
This underscores the need for Nigerian students to regularly consult updated PGWP guidelines and select programs aligned with current immigration trends.
READ MORE: 10 Cheapest Countries to Study in Europe for International Students (2025)
Spouses and Family Members of International Workers/Students
As part of the visa policy shifts in Canada, new restrictions were implemented in January 2025 on open work permits (OWPs) for spouses of international students and workers. These changes now limit OWPs to spouses of students enrolled in master’s programs, doctoral programs, or select professional programs such as law, engineering, or nursing.
For Nigerian families, this policy has significant implications. Many previously relied on these permits to migrate together and share financial responsibilities. Now, if a Nigerian student is pursuing an undergraduate or diploma-level program, their spouse is no longer eligible for an open work permit. Similarly, for the spouses of foreign workers, eligibility is tied to the worker’s employment in TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities) occupations 0, 1, 2, or 3, and their work permit must have at least 16 months of validity at the time of application.
These restrictions mean Nigerian couples must plan more strategically, as family reunification has become more complex under Canada’s updated immigration regulations.
Temporary Workers and Closed Work Permit Holders
The Canadian government also introduced policy flexibility for foreign workers on closed work permits. Under the visa policy shifts in Canada, a temporary public policy enacted in May 2025 allows eligible closed work permit holders to apply for authorisation to change their employers or occupations without waiting for a new work permit to be issued. For Nigerians in Canada on employer-specific work permits, this is a welcome relief. Many have been previously trapped in abusive or exploitative job conditions due to restrictive employer terms. This policy provides greater job mobility and enhances workplace protection.
However, eligibility is contingent on meeting specific IRCC criteria and obtaining prior authorisation before making any job switch. At the same time, the government’s decision to reduce Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allocations by 50% makes it more challenging for Nigerian temporary workers to secure permanent residence through provincial routes, unless they are in sectors deemed essential, such as healthcare or construction. Overall, this highlights a growing focus on targeted labour market needs within Canada’s immigration strategy.
Applicants for New PR Pathways (RCIP and FCIP)
To address labour shortages in underserved communities, Canada launched two new Permanent Residency (PR) pathways in January 2025: the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) and the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP). These visa policy shifts in Canada are part of the federal effort to attract immigrants to rural and Francophone communities outside Quebec.
For Nigerians, especially those with French-language skills or those open to settling outside major cities, these new pilots offer promising opportunities. The RCIP targets workers with job offers in designated rural areas, while the FCIP supports Francophone immigrants relocating outside Quebec.
Given the Nigerian diaspora’s strong representation in urban centres like Toronto and Vancouver, this shift urges more applicants to explore less-saturated regions where demand for skilled labour is higher and immigration competition is lower. Additionally, French-speaking Nigerians can leverage the FCIP to fast-track their permanent residency applications. These new pathways are a strategic pivot that rewards linguistic diversity and regional settlement.
Those on Maintained Status or Facing Refusals
Effective May 28, 2025, IRCC revised its policy concerning foreign nationals on maintained status, which refers to individuals who remain in Canada legally while a decision on their temporary residence extension is pending. Under the new rules, if an individual’s first application is refused and a second one is pending, they no longer receive an automatic extension of legal status.
For Nigerians who often rely on multiple application submissions to stay in status, this change is critical. It increases the risk of falling out of status and having to apply for restoration, which comes with additional requirements and fees. This policy aims to streamline immigration processing but also to tighten the window for appeal or correction. Nigerians in this situation must now submit more complete and error-free applications the first time, and act quickly upon receiving a refusal. It marks a shift from procedural flexibility to strict enforcement of timelines and documentation accuracy.
Judicial Review Applicants
To deal with the backlog of legal challenges in immigration cases, Canada’s Federal Court announced on May 14, 2025, that applicants now have 75 days instead of 30 to apply for leave for judicial review. This extension is part of broader visa policy shifts in Canada aimed at increasing transparency and fairness in decision reviews.
For Nigerians whose applications have been refused, whether for study, work, or residency, this measure provides a greater window to organise legal representation, gather documentation, and prepare appeals. It is especially helpful for applicants facing delays due to document authentication, verification, or embassy communication lags. While this change does not increase approval chances, it ensures that due process is more accessible, especially to applicants from regions like Nigeria, where processing capacity and legal resources may be constrained.
International Experience Canada (IEC) Applicants
In a more technical but meaningful policy adjustment, as of May 6, 2025, eligible International Experience Canada (IEC) applicants already residing in Canada no longer need to exit the country to receive their work permit. Instead, approved permits can now be mailed directly to Canadian addresses. This update, one of the practical visa policy shifts in Canada, benefits Nigerian youth participating in the IEC program or similar cultural exchange schemes. Although the number of Nigerian IEC participants is relatively low compared to other regions, those who do qualify now face fewer travel-related delays and expenses. The change reflects IRCC’s efforts to reduce processing backlogs and simplify intra-Canada permit transitions. It also signals a broader openness to retaining international talent already within Canadian borders.
What does this Visa Policy shift in Canada Mean for Nigerians?
The visa policy shifts in Canada in 2025 signal a move toward quality over quantity, focusing on:
- Economic needs (e.g., healthcare, trades).
- Demographic balance (e.g., French-speaking communities).
- System sustainability (e.g., capping applications).
For Nigerians, who consistently rank among the top source countries for immigrants, these changes necessitate a strategic approach to strengthen your French language skills, target rural and underserved provinces, choose high-demand occupations, and prioritise Canadian study or work experience before applying for PR.
Additionally, navigating Canada’s immigration system in 2025 requires flexibility, planning, and accurate information. Always check and keep updated on official sources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long can I stay in Canada without needing a visitor visa?
This depends on your nationality. Visa-exempt travellers from certain countries may enter with an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) instead. Once admitted, most visitors, whether under a visa or eTA, are granted up to 6 months’ stay, unless a border officer states otherwise. Super Visa holders have longer stays up to 5 years per entry.
What documents do I need for a Canadian tourist visa?
You generally need:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity.
- Completed application forms (IMM 5257 and others).
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, employment letter).
- Travel itinerary and purpose (flight/travel plans).
- Invitation letter (if visiting someone in Canada).
- Biometrics submission; valid for 10 years
- Ties to the home country show intent to return.
- Digital photos and possibly a medical exam.
Specific requirements may vary by country of residence.
What are the eligibility requirements for a Canadian tourist visa?
To qualify for a Canadian tourist visa, you must:
- Show temporary, genuine intentions for the visit.
- Have enough funds to cover your stay and return.
- Possess a valid passport, and not be inadmissible.
- ·Be in good health, and may require a medical exam depending on the length of stay.
- Possibly provide biometrics
- Confirm digital photo standards and any visa application fees.
READ MORE: 7 Top Countries that allow International Students to bring Dependents from Nigeria
The visa policy shifts in Canada throughout 2025 reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to balance economic demand, border control, and immigration capacity. From study permit caps and Express Entry adjustments to visitor visa updates and expanded pilot programs, these changes have significant implications for international applicants, particularly Nigerians. Whether you’re planning a short visit, pursuing education, or applying as a skilled worker, staying informed about current policies is essential.
By understanding the eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and policy timelines, you can better position yourselves for success under Canada’s evolving immigration landscape. Always refer to official government sources such as Canada.ca or consult licensed immigration consultants for personalised guidance.
Discover more from Leaving Nigeria
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
