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How to Relocate to Canada from Nigeria: Complete Guide

1. Why Relocate to Canada from Nigeria?

Canada is a popular destination for Nigerians due to its high standard of living, job opportunities, excellent healthcare, and quality education system. With various immigration pathways available, Canada is accessible for skilled workers, students, and families looking to start a new life in a welcoming country.

2.1 Express Entry System

The Express Entry system is the fastest pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers. It includes three immigration programs:

  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For skilled professionals with work experience outside Canada.
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For tradespeople with qualifications in fields like construction, industrial, and electrical trades.
  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For individuals with work experience in Canada.

Eligibility is based on factors like age, education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability. Candidates submit profiles to the Express Entry pool and are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), with high-ranking applicants invited to apply for permanent residency.

2.2 Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)

Each Canadian province has its own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), allowing it to nominate applicants who meet the specific skill or occupation needs of the province. Some PNPs have Express Entry streams that accelerate the process, while others require separate applications. Popular PNPs for Nigerians include:

  • Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
  • Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)
  • British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP)

2.3 Study Permit with Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

For Nigerian students, Canada offers high-quality education and post-graduation work opportunities. The Study Permit allows students to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), and upon graduation, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) enables students to work in Canada for up to three years. This work experience can later support a permanent residency application under the Canadian Experience Class.

2.4 Family Sponsorship

If you have close family members who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents, they can sponsor you to come to Canada. Family sponsorship includes spouses, common-law partners, parents, and dependent children.

2.5 Start-Up Visa Program

For entrepreneurs with a viable business idea, Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program offers a pathway to permanent residency. Applicants must demonstrate business experience, provide a business plan, and secure funding from a designated Canadian venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator.

3. Eligibility Requirements for Canadian Immigration from Nigeria

Each pathway has its own specific requirements, but there are some common eligibility criteria across all programs:

  • Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or French (IELTS or TEF exam) is essential, with minimum score requirements varying by program.
  • Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): Most pathways require an ECA to confirm the equivalency of your Nigerian qualifications in Canada.
  • Proof of Funds: Demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself and family members upon arrival, depending on family size and immigration stream.
  • Health and Security Clearances: A medical exam and police clearance certificate are required to prove good health and a clean background.

4. How to Apply for Immigration to Canada from Nigeria

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Use the Come to Canada tool on the Government of Canada’s website to check your eligibility for different immigration programs.

Step 2: Take Language Tests

Register for an IELTS or TEF exam to meet language proficiency requirements. Test results are essential for Express Entry and many other programs.

Step 3: Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)

Submit your academic certificates to an approved ECA organization, like World Education Services (WES), to verify your Nigerian qualifications.

Step 4: Create an Express Entry Profile (If Applicable)

If applying through Express Entry, create an online profile, inputting details like age, education, work experience, and language scores. Eligible profiles are placed into a pool and scored based on the CRS.

Step 5: Submit an Application for Permanent Residency

Once you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), submit a complete application for permanent residency, including all required documents and fees.

Step 6: Provide Biometrics and Attend a Medical Exam

All applicants must provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and undergo a medical exam by a panel physician approved by the Government of Canada.

5. Required Documents for Canadian Immigration

  • Valid Passport
  • Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
  • Language Test Results (IELTS or TEF)
  • Proof of Funds: Bank statements or financial documents showing sufficient funds.
  • Job Offer Letter (if applicable): For those applying with a job offer or under PNP.
  • Medical Exam and Police Clearance: Proof of good health and a clean background.
  • Birth and Marriage Certificates: If applying with family members.

6. Costs Associated with Canadian Immigration

6.1 Application Fees

  • Express Entry Application: CAD $1,365 for adults and CAD $230 for dependent children.
  • Study Permit: CAD $150
  • Work Permit: CAD $155
  • Provincial Nominee Program Fees: Varies by province, ranging from CAD $250 to CAD $1,500.

6.2 Other Costs

  • Language Test Fees: Around CAD $300
  • ECA Fees: CAD $200–$300
  • Medical Exam: CAD $100–$200
  • Proof of Funds Requirement: For a single applicant, at least CAD $13,757, with an additional amount for each family member.

7. Tips for a Successful Canadian Immigration Application

  1. Improve Your CRS Score: Increase your language test score, gain additional work experience, or pursue education to raise your CRS score for Express Entry.
  2. Apply for Provincial Nomination: If your CRS score is low, apply for a PNP, which can add 600 points to your score.
  3. Double-Check Documentation: Ensure all documents meet Canadian immigration requirements and are accurate.
  4. Consider an Immigration Consultant: For complex cases, seek help from a Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or immigration lawyer.
  5. Meet All Deadlines: Submit documents and respond to requests on time to avoid delays or rejections.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How long does it take to immigrate to Canada from Nigeria?
    Express Entry applications generally take 6 months after receiving an ITA, while PNPs may take longer (8–12 months).
  2. Can I work in Canada while my PR application is processed?
    Yes, if you have a valid work permit or study permit with authorization to work, you can work while waiting for PR.
  3. Do I need a job offer to apply for Express Entry?
    No, but having a job offer can boost your CRS score. The Federal Skilled Worker Program doesn’t require a job offer.
  4. Can I bring my family with me to Canada?
    Yes, most immigration streams allow family members to accompany the primary applicant.
  5. Is it possible to apply for more than one immigration program?
    Yes, many applicants apply for multiple programs to increase their chances of success.

9. Conclusion

Moving from Nigeria to Canada involves careful planning, documentation, and understanding the immigration pathways that best suit your qualifications and goals. By following the outlined steps, preparing the required documents, and meeting financial requirements, you can improve your chances of a smooth immigration process and start a successful life in Canada.

Trisha Lee