Relocating Abroad from Nigeria - Complete Guide 2026
Everything you need to plan your relocation: costs, documents, timelines, and country comparisons
Whether you call it "Japa" or just planning a fresh start, relocating abroad is a major life decision. This guide covers the practical steps every Nigerian needs to know.
Main Relocation Pathways
| Pathway | Best For | Timeline | Budget (NGN) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work Visa | Professionals with skills in demand | 3-12 months | 2-5 million |
| Study Visa | Those wanting education + work pathway | 6-12 months | 5-20 million/year |
| Permanent Residency | Skilled workers (Canada/Australia points) | 6-18 months | 2-4 million |
| DV Lottery (USA) | Anyone with high school diploma | 1-2 years | Free to enter |
| Family Sponsorship | Those with family abroad | 1-5+ years | Varies |
Relocation Checklist
12-6 Months Before Departure
- Research destination countries and immigration pathways
- Take required language tests (IELTS, PTE, TCF, TestDaF)
- Get educational credentials assessed (WES for Canada, NARIC for UK, etc.)
- Start saving - budget NGN 3-10 million minimum depending on destination
- Renew passport if less than 1 year validity remaining
- Obtain police clearance certificate from Nigeria Police
6-3 Months Before
- Apply for visa/immigration programme
- Complete medical examinations at designated panel physicians
- Attest/apostille educational documents (MFA Nigeria)
- Start applying for jobs in destination country
- Open a domiciliary account at your Nigerian bank (USD/GBP/EUR)
3-1 Months Before
- Book flights (one-way is usually cheaper; round-trip may be needed for visa)
- Arrange temporary accommodation for first 2-4 weeks
- Transfer funds (use official channels - banks, regulated fintechs)
- Get international driving permit if applicable
- Sort out Nigerian affairs (power of attorney, property, bills)
After Arrival
- Register with Nigerian embassy/consulate in destination country
- Open local bank account
- Get local phone number and set up essentials
- Register for national ID/social insurance (NIN equivalent)
- Join Nigerian community groups for support and networking
Country Comparison for Nigerians
| Factor | UK | Canada | USA | Australia | Germany |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ease of immigration | Medium | High | Low | Medium | Medium |
| Job offer needed? | Yes | No (Express Entry) | Yes | No (subclass 189) | No (Opportunity Card) |
| PR timeline | 5 years | Direct | 2-7+ years | Direct (189/190) | 21-33 months |
| Nigerian diaspora | Very large | Large | Very large | Growing | Small |
| Healthcare | Free (NHS) | Free (provincial) | Paid (insurance) | Subsidised (Medicare) | Free (mandatory) |
| Salary (avg.) | GBP 35K | CAD 60K | $65K | AUD 75K | EUR 45K |
FAQ
Canada through Express Entry is one of the most cost-effective options (no job offer needed, NGN 2-3 million total). Germany's Opportunity Card is also affordable. The DV Lottery (USA) is free to enter. For lower upfront costs, consider the UAE (employer often covers relocation) or Saudi Arabia.
Yes. Canada's Provincial Nominee Programs accept skilled tradespeople. Australia's subclass 482 includes trade occupations. The UK Health & Care Worker Visa accepts care workers without degrees. The DV Lottery requires only a high school diploma. The UAE and Saudi Arabia hire in construction and hospitality without degrees.
Use official channels only: bank wire transfers (Form A for PTA/BTA), regulated fintechs (Wise, Remitly, WorldRemit), or your bank's domiciliary account. The CBN allows PTA (Personal Travel Allowance) of $4,000 and BTA (Basic Travel Allowance) of $5,000 per quarter. Avoid black market exchanges - it's illegal and risky.