If you are a Nigerian looking to relocate in 2024 or 2025, this post is for you. In this post, you will read about the top (and best) relocation destinations for Nigerians and why. You will also see some of the immigration streams or paths available to these countries. Ask us any questions you may have in the comment section below and we will respond to you.
Nigeria, the giant of Africa, has over 200 million people, a diverse culture, and rich natural resources. Despite this, the country has been plagued with numerous challenges, including economic instability, corruption, insecurity, and political unrest. These challenges have made life difficult for Nigerians; many seek better opportunities abroad. In this article, we will explore the best countries for Nigerians to migrate to in 2024 and why they may want to consider relocating in the first place.
Why Nigerians may want to consider migrating to other countries:
There are various reasons why Nigerians may want to consider migrating or relocating to other countries. One of the primary reasons is the economic situation in Nigeria. Many Nigerians struggle to make ends meet with high unemployment rates and a relatively low minimum wage. Additionally, the cost of living in major cities like Lagos and Abuja is high, making saving money or investing in one’s future challenging.
Another reason Nigerians may want to consider migrating is the security situation in the country. In recent years, Nigeria has experienced a surge in insecurity, with issues ranging from kidnapping to terrorism. These security challenges have made it challenging for Nigerians to live peacefully and pursue their dreams.
Best countries for Nigerians to Relocate (Migrate) to and why:
- Canada: Canada is one of the best countries for Nigerians to migrate to. With a welcoming immigration policy, quality education, and excellent healthcare services, Canada offers immigrants a high standard of living. Additionally, the country has a diverse population, making it easy for Nigerians to integrate into Canadian society. Nigerians can migrate to Canada through various pathways, including the Express Entry System, Provincial Nominee Program, and Family Sponsorship program.
- United States: The United States is another popular destination for Nigerians looking to migrate. With a robust economy, diverse culture, and excellent education system, the US offers numerous opportunities for Nigerians. Nigerians can migrate to the US through various pathways, including employment-based visas, family-based visas, and the Diversity Visa Lottery program (currently inactive for Nigerians).
- United Kingdom: The United Kingdom is a popular destination for Nigerians looking to study or work abroad. With world-class universities, excellent healthcare, and a thriving economy, the UK offers numerous opportunities for Nigerians. Nigerians can migrate to the UK through various pathways, including the Tier 2 visa for skilled workers, the Tier 4 student visa, and the Family Visa program.
- Australia: Australia is another popular destination for Nigerians looking to migrate. With a high standard of living, excellent healthcare system, and diverse culture, Australia offers numerous opportunities for Nigerians. Nigerians can migrate to Australia through various pathways, including the Skilled Independent Visa, the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme, and the Family Visa program.
Below is the table of immigration to Canada by country. In other words, citizens of countries that have migrated to Canada the most.
| Place of birth | Recent immigrants % |
|---|---|
| India | 18.6 |
| Philippines | 11.4 |
| China | 8.9 |
| Syria | 4.8 |
| Nigeria | 3.0 |
| United States | 3.0 |
| Pakistan | 2.7 |
| France | 2.0 |
| Iran | 1.9 |
| United Kingdom | 1.7 |
Immigration or Relocation Paths and Streams for to each Country
Canada:
- Express Entry System: Requires a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 470, proficiency in English or French, and at least one year of skilled work experience.
- Provincial Nominee Program: Applicants must have a job offer from a Canadian employer and meet the eligibility requirements of the specific province.
- Family Sponsorship program: Allows Canadians to sponsor their spouses, children, parents, and grandparents to immigrate to Canada.
United States:
- Employment-based visas: Applicants must have a job offer from a US employer and meet the eligibility requirements of the specific visa category.
- Family-based visas: Allows US citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouses, children, parents, and siblings to immigrate to the US.
- Diversity Visa Lottery program: A random selection process that provides a pathway to the US for individuals from countries with low immigration rates.
United Kingdom:
- Tier 2 visa: Applicants must have a job offer from a UK employer, meet the eligibility requirements of the specific visa category, and score enough points in the UK Points-Based System.
- Tier 4 student visa: Applicants must have a confirmed offer of acceptance from a recognized UK educational institution and meet the eligibility requirements of the specific visa category.
- Family Visa program: Allows UK citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouses, children, parents, and siblings to immigrate to the UK.
Australia:
- Skilled Independent Visa: Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive an invitation to apply, meet the eligibility requirements of the specific visa category, and score enough points in the Australian Points-Based System.
- Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme: Requires a job offer from a regional employer in Australia and meets the eligibility requirements of the specific visa category.
- Family Visa program: Allows Australian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouses, children, parents, and siblings to immigrate to Australia.
We will write in details about each of these immigration and relocation pathways in the coming weeks. Bookmark this website, follow us on social media, and subscribe to our email list so that you don’t miss these updates. In the meantime, you may want to see the jobs (career path) you can have with your current degree.
Conclusion and takeaways
Migrating to a new country can be a life-changing decision, and it is essential to consider all the factors involved. The countries listed above offer numerous opportunities for Nigerians, including quality education, excellent healthcare, and a high standard of living. By following the above-mentioned pathways, Nigerians can successfully migrate to these countries and start a new chapter in their lives.