Canadian citizens: Nigeria Landing Card now required for travel

Since May 2025, the Nigerian government has introduced a mandatory digital Landing Card for all incoming travelers, including Canadian citizens.

It’s no longer enough to just have your Nigeria eVisa.

You now need both the eVisa and the Landing Card to enter the country without delays or issues.

What is the Nigeria Landing Card?

The Nigeria Landing Card is a digital entry form that must be completed online before arriving in Nigeria. It replaces the paper forms that were previously handed out on flights.

You must submit the form within 96 hours of your arrival, and a confirmation will be sent to your email.

💡 Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert, recommends:

"A printed version of both your Nigeria eVisa and Landing Card is optional, but highly recommended in case of technical issues at the airport."

Do Canadian citizens need both an eVisa and Landing Card?

Yes. Canadian passport holders are not eligible for visa-free entry into Nigeria. You must first apply for the Nigeria eVisa, and only after approval can you register for the Landing Card.

Both documents are checked at the airport, and travelers without one or the other may be refused entry.

🛑 Important: Nigeria’s visa-on-arrival policy has ended. Apply for an eVisa in advance, don’t wait until you land. You may not even be allowed on the flight without a visa.

What you need for the Nigeria Landing Card

✔️ Valid Canadian passport
✔️ Travel information (flight number, date)
✔️ Nigerian accommodation details (hotel or host)
✔️ A valid and approved Nigeria eVisa reference number

Step-by-step guide: How to apply for the eVisa and Landing Card

The process is simple when done through iVisa:

1️⃣ Start by completing the Nigeria eVisa application on this website or mobile app.

2️⃣ Once approved, you'll receive a reference number. Use this to complete the Landing Card form in your iVisa account or via the app.

3️⃣ Fill in your flight and accommodation details. The Landing Card is typically emailed to you the same day.

Plan ahead with this visa application timeline checker:

Why Canadian travelers prefer iVisa

While you can use the government portal, many travelers have reported errors and confusion.

💡 Jason D., recent traveler, recommends:

"My credit card kept being rejected on the gov website, during the payment step of the eVisa application. iVisa sorted it in minutes, so helpful. I could even pay with PayPal."

What happens when you land in Nigeria?

Even with your eVisa and Landing Card approved, you’ll go through biometric screening on arrival. Expect:

• 📸 Facial photo
• ✋ Fingerprint scan

⌛ Allow an extra 15–20 minutes at immigration.

💡 Michael Zervos from Project Kosmos shares:

“The process was smooth. They scanned my face and fingerprints, and I was through within minutes. Everyone was friendly and efficient.”

Pro tip: Avoid the queues

Try arriving at Lagos Airport between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM on a Tuesday or Wednesday. These are typically quieter windows for immigration processing.

Don't forget your Nigeria Exit Card

Before leaving Nigeria, all travelers must submit a Nigeria Exit Card online within 96 hours of departure.

Apply via the official portal. If the site is unresponsive, contact iVisa for support.

Health requirements for Canadian travelers

Canadian citizens are strongly advised to carry a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate, especially if arriving from or transiting through risk-prone countries.

For more details, consult your local travel clinic or Canada’s travel health site.

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