Did you know that in 2019, Nigeria ranked as the fourth largest source of immigrants to Canada, with 12,600 Nigerians becoming permanent residents? As a permanent resident of Canada, you have a free access to healthcare and high-quality education to a safe, stable environment and plenty of jobs. As a permanent resident, you can live and work anywhere in the country and enjoy these benefits. If you’re ready to immigrate to Canada from Nigeria, here’s a simple guide to help you start your journey.
How Canadian Immigration Works
Canada has over 100 visa and immigration options. Some are points-based, selecting the highest-rated applicants, while others are employer-driven, requiring a job offer. Nigerians who have studied or worked in Canada often qualify for additional immigration programs, making their path to permanent residence even smoother.
Thanks to their English proficiency, strong work ethic, and high levels of education, Nigerians have been very successful in moving to Canada. Let’s explore the top five ways to immigrate to Canada from Nigeria.
5 Ways to Immigrate to Canada from Nigeria
1. Apply Through the Express Entry System
The Express Entry system is the fastest and most popular way for skilled Nigerian workers to gain permanent residence in Canada. It works on a points-based system called the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), where applicants are scored based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills.
- How to Get an Invitation to Apply (ITA):
High-scoring candidates receive an ITA during bi-weekly draws. Boost your CRS score by securing a job offer or earning a provincial nomination, which adds 600 points. - Processing Time:
Applications through Express Entry are processed in just six months, making it one of the quickest paths to immigrate to Canada from Nigeria.
2. Secure a Provincial Nomination (PN)
Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) allow provinces to select immigrants based on their economic needs. With 13 provinces and territories (11 of which have PNPs), there are about 80 programs to choose from.
- How It Works:
Apply directly to a PNP or express interest through your Express Entry profile. For example, New Brunswick targets skilled workers like truck drivers and French-speaking immigrants. If nominated, you can apply for permanent residence and settle in the province that nominated you.
3. Study in Canada to Qualify for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)
Study in Canada and Work Post-Graduation
Studying in Canada is an excellent pathway to permanent residence. Canadian qualifications, like degrees or diplomas, carry more weight in immigration applications than foreign credentials.
- Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP):
After completing an eligible program (at least eight months), you can apply for a PGWP, allowing you to work anywhere in Canada. Canadian work experience combined with a local education increases your chances of permanent residency.
4. Work in Canada as a Farm worker or Caregiver
Canada has a constant need for farm workers and caregivers. It is the second-largest country in the world with an equally large agricultural sector. These roles are accessible through special work permit programs like the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot and the Home Care Provider Pilot.
- Path to Permanent Residency:
With 1-2 years of Canadian work experience and a job offer, you can transition to permanent residence.
5. Obtain a Job Offer from a Designated Employer in Atlantic Canada
The Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP) allows you to move to one of Canada’s Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, or Prince Edward Island.
- Main Requirement:
Secure a job offer from a designated employer in these provinces to qualify for the program.
Cost of Immigrating to Canada from Nigeria?
The federal processing fee for permanent residents is $ 1,325. You may also need settlement funds if you do not have a reserved position in Canada. You need approximately $ 12,960 as a single applicant and can add an additional $ 3,492 per dependent family member, even if they are not moving to Canada with you.
Why Immigrate to Canada from Nigeria?
- Better Opportunities: Canada has a strong economy and a growing demand for skilled workers.
- Quality of Life: Enjoy free healthcare, world-class education, and a safe environment.
- Family Reunification: Sponsor your loved ones to join you in Canada.
- Diversity: Canada celebrates multiculturalism, welcoming people of all backgrounds and religions.
Canada is calling! With the right steps and preparation, you can successfully immigrate to Canada from Nigeria and build a brighter future for yourself and your family. Take the first step now—explore your options and start your application!