9 Ways To Migrate Without A Job Or School

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve thought about “Japa” (the popular Nigerian slang for escaping the country’s challenges in search of greener pastures). Between the rising cost of living, unstable economy, and limited opportunities, it’s no surprise that thousands of Nigerians are exploring legal and smart ways to relocate abroad. 

But here’s the thing not all relocation path takes the traditional long visa wait, scholarships, or express entry. There are better and less competitive ones to go about these days, and thousands of Nigerians are relocating successfully legally and with less hindrance. 

This is based on real Japa strategies, ranging from visa-free entries to special programs that do not require a degree or millions of naira. Whether you are a techie, caregiver, freelancer, student, or skilled worker there is a pathway here for you. 

1. Portugal – The D7 Visa & Digital Nomad Route

Who this is for: 

Remote workers, freelancers, online entrepreneurs, or Nigerians with passive income. 

Process: 

• Get your NIF (Portuguese Tax ID) through a local representative or legal agent online. 
• Open a Portuguese bank account and deposit at least €10,000 (for single applicants). 
• Secure accommodation in Portugal (Airbnb for 6 months or a rental contract). 
• Gather required documents: International passport, income proof (salary or freelancing contracts), bank statement, background check, and health insurance. 
• Apply through VFS in Lagos or Abuja for the D7 Visa. 
• Fly to Portugal, receive a temporary residence permit, and enjoy access to the Schengen Area. 

After 5 years of legal stay, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship. 

For more information on the D7 visa go to relocating to Portugal as a Nigerian. 

2. Ausbildung Route (Vocational Training in Germany)

The Ausbildung program is one of the smartest and most realistic relocation pathways for young Nigerians seeking career training and long-term settlement in Germany. It’s a dual vocational training system where you learn on the job while also receiving classroom instruction. You get paid during your training, and many participants are offered full-time jobs upon completion. 

Why This Works for Nigerians: 

• No need for a university degree 
• Guaranteed monthly stipend (between €800–€1,200) 
• Long-term residency prospects 
• Shorter visa processing times compared to student visas 

Step-by-Step Process: 

• Research and Apply for an Ausbildung Program: Use trusted platforms like ausbildung.de, jooble.org, or make-it-in-germany.com. 
• Secure a Training Contract: Your training contract (Ausbildungsvertrag) must be signed and specify your role, salary, and duration (typically 2–3 years). 
• Learn Basic German (At Least A2): Most Ausbildung programs require at least A2 or B1 level German language proficiency, proven by a recognized certificate (e.g. Goethe-Institut). 
• Gather Visa Documents: Once accepted, apply for a German National Visa (Type D) at the German Consulate in Lagos or Abuja. 

Documents Required for the Ausbildung Visa (For Nigerians) 

Here’s a breakdown of what you need to prepare: 

A. General Visa Documents 

• Completed national visa application form 
• Valid Nigerian international passport 
• Two biometric passport photographs 
• Cover/motivation letter (in German or English) 
• Visa appointment confirmation 

B. Education & Training 

• Ausbildung contract (signed) 
• WAEC/NECO certificate (translated) 
• CV in German or English 
• Additional diplomas/certificates (e.g. OND, ND, HND if applicable) 

C. Language Requirement 

• Minimum A2 German language certificate (Goethe-Institut or telc preferred) 
• OR employer/school confirmation if program is in English 

D. Proof of Financial Means 

• Blocked account with €11,208, or 
• Formal obligation letter (Verpflichtungserklärung) from a sponsor in Germany 

E. Health Insurance 

• Proof of health insurance valid for the initial stay 

F. Additional 

• Police clearance certificate 
• Birth certificate 
• Proof of accommodation in Germany (if applicable) 

All documents not originally in German or English must be translated into German by a certified translator. Always bring originals and two copies to your visa interview. 

The Ausbildung visa is often approved faster when your documents are complete and your language skills are solid. It’s an underrated but powerful path for young Nigerians to build a life in Europe without needing a university degree or large funds up front.  

3. United Kingdom – Global Talent Visa (Creatives & Tech Professionals)

The UK Global Talent Visa is one of the most flexible and prestigious relocation pathways for Nigerians in the creative and tech industries. It allows individuals with recognized achievements or potential in their fields to live and work in the UK without a job offer. You can freelance, work remotely, take up jobs, or build your own company. It’s open to creatives (like artists, filmmakers, musicians, fashion designers, photographers, etc.) and tech professionals (like software engineers, AI experts, fintech founders, blockchain developers, etc.). 

Why This Works for Nigerians: 

• No job offers required — Apply on merit and recognition 
• Open to a wide range of sectors — From coding to cinematography 
• Fast-track to permanent residency (3–5 years) 
• Spouse and kids can join and work/study 
• Ability to freelance or start your own business 
• One of the smartest “legal Japa” routes for professionals 

Step-by-Step Process 

A. Choose Your Field and Endorsing Body 

Depending on your profession, apply under: 

Field	Endorsing Body	Example Professions
Tech & Digital	Tech Nation (now through UKRI/DSIT)	Software Engineers, AI Specialists, Data Scientists
Arts & Culture	Arts Council England	Musicians, Dancers, Filmmakers, Actors, Artists
Fashion	British Fashion Council	Fashion Designers, Stylists
Architecture	RIBA	Architects, Urban Planners
Film & TV	British Film Institute	Directors, Cinematographers, Screenwriters

B. Decide Between “Exceptional Talent” and “Exceptional Promise” 

• Exceptional Talent – For those already established internationally 
• Exceptional Promise – For those showing strong potential, often early-career professionals 

Documents Required for the Global Talent Visa (For Nigerians) 

A. General Identity & Immigration Documents 

• Valid Nigerian international passport 
• TB Test certificate from IOM Lagos/Abuja (required for long stays) 
• Proof of visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) payment 
• English language proficiency (for some tech applicants, not required for creatives) 

B. Portfolio/Proof of Achievement (Creatives) 

• CV detailing professional history 
• 3 recommendation letters from recognized experts or institutions 
• 10 documents of evidence including: Press articles, awards, media features, festival participation, exhibitions, international showcases, contracts, programs, professional invitations and income earned from the profession (optional) 

Tech-Specific Requirements (via Tech Nation) 

• CV with full tech work history 
• 3 recommendation letters from senior professionals in tech 
• 10 pieces of evidence including: Proof of innovation (projects, GitHub contributions), evidence of product-led tech work (startups, apps, tools), proof of impact (growth metrics, funding rounds), speaking at conferences, publishing articles/blogs, awards, patents and accelerator participation 

Application Stages 

Stage 1 – Endorsement 

• Apply via the UK Home Office portal for endorsement 
• Submit your documents to the relevant endorsing body (Arts Council, Tech Nation replacement via UKRI, etc.) 
• Wait 4–8 weeks for endorsement decision 

Stage 2 – Visa Application 

• Apply for the actual visa online 
• Book biometrics appointment at TLSContact Lagos or Abuja 
• Submit TB test, passport, and supporting docs 
• Visa usually processed within 3–8 weeks 

After Arriving in the UK 

• Visa length: 1 to 5 years (you choose) 
• You can work full-time, freelance, or start a business 
• No job restrictions — total flexibility 
• Eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after: 
• 3 years for Exceptional Talent 
• 5 years for Exceptional Promise 
• Family members get dependent visas with work/study rights 

Why This Strategy Works 

The UK Global Talent Visa is arguably the smartest UK relocation strategy for Nigerians in tech and the arts. It doesn’t need employer sponsorship, and it rewards what you’ve already done in Nigeria or abroad. Whether you’re a backend developer or an Afrobeats producer, this is a legitimate, respected pathway to legally live, work, and build a future in the UK. 

4. Canada – Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) & Tech Talent Pathways

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is one of Canada’s most realistic and strategic relocation routes for Nigerians seeking permanent residency through job offers in designated provinces. It covers the four Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island (PEI), and Newfoundland & Labrador. 

Unlike Express Entry, this program is employer-driven, meaning a designated Canadian employer must offer you a job. There’s also a growing demand for tech workers through provincial Tech Talent Pools, making it viable for skilled Nigerians in IT, health care, manufacturing, trades, hospitality, and more. 

Why This Works for Nigerians: 

• Employer-driven: Job offer is the main requirement 
• Offers a direct path to Permanent Residency (PR) 
• Doesn’t require high CRS points like Express Entry 
• Tech, trades, healthcare, and hospitality in high demand 
• No age limit and lower IELTS requirement 

Step-by-Step Process 

A. Choose Your Target Atlantic Province 

Pick one of the four provinces based on job availability and your skillset: 

• Nova Scotia (strong in healthcare and tech) 
• New Brunswick (strong in trades, drivers, and IT) 
• PEI (hospitality, food service, and agriculture) 
• Newfoundland & Labrador (oil/gas, marine, health) 

B. Search for Jobs from Designated Employers 

Find jobs with designated employers via: 

• Provincial immigration websites (e.g. https://www.welcomenb.ca) 
• Job Bank Canada 
• Sector-specific employer directories 
• Online job platforms with filters for AIP (Indeed, Job Bank, etc.) 

C. Get a Job Offer and Employer Endorsement 

Once offered a job: 

• The employer applies for an AIP endorsement on your behalf 
• No LMIA is required, making it easier than other work permits 
• You’ll receive an Endorsement Certificate 

D. Apply for Permanent Residency (PR) 

After receiving your endorsement: 

• Apply for Permanent Residency through IRCC 
• You may also apply for a temporary work permit to enter Canada while PR is processing 
• Spouse and children can be included in your application 

Documents Required for the AIP (For Nigerians) 

A. General Identification Documents 

• Valid Nigerian international passport 
• Passport photograph 
• Birth certificate 
• Marriage certificate (if applying with spouse) 
• Police Character Certificate 
• Proof of funds (bank statement or sponsor documents) 

B. Employment-Related Documents 

• Official job offers from a designated employer 
• AIP Endorsement Certificate 
• Employment contract 
• Employer reference letters (for past jobs) 
• Resume/CV 

C. Education & Language Documents 

• WAEC/NECO or university certificates 
• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) via WES or IQAS 
• IELTS General Test Result (CLB 4 or higher usually acceptable) 

D. Medical & Biometric Requirements 

• Upfront medical exam from IRCC-approved clinic in Nigeria 
• Biometric capture at VFS Global (Lagos or Abuja) 

Tech Talent Pools (For Nigerians in Tech) 

Provinces like New Brunswick and Nova Scotia run Tech Talent Streams to fast-track immigration for professionals in: 

• Software Development 
• Cybersecurity 
• AI & Machine Learning 
• Cloud Computing 
• Data Analytics 

You can attend tech recruitment fairs or virtual info sessions hosted by these provinces to connect directly with hiring employers. 

After Landing in Canada 

• Get a Canadian Permanent Resident Card (PR) 
• Access to free healthcare, education, and work rights 
• Open work permit for your spouse 
• Pathway to Canadian citizenship in 3–5 years 
• Enjoy a high standard of living in low-density, scenic provinces 

Why This Strategy Works 

The Atlantic Immigration Program is one of the most accessible and secure routes to Canadian PR for Nigerians even without a high CRS score. Whether you’re a skilled tech worker, nurse, chef, or truck driver, AIP gives you a family-inclusive, employer-backed path to settle in Canada legally, with less competition than Express Entry and a high success rate.  

5. United States – EB-3 & EB-1A Green Card Pathways

Relocating to the United States without a university degree may seem difficult, but the EB-3 Unskilled Worker Green Card offers a clear and legitimate route. On the other end of the spectrum, for highly accomplished Nigerians in fields like science, arts, sports, or business, the EB-1A Extraordinary Ability Green Card offers a fast-track to permanent residency without employer sponsorship. Here’s how each works: 

EB-3 Unskilled Worker Green Card 

The EB-3 Visa is a U.S. employment-based immigrant visa that allows Nigerians to relocate permanently for full-time work. It’s especially viable for skilled, unskilled, and professional workers and many Nigerians have successfully moved through this route for caregiving, factory, construction, or hospitality roles. 

Why This Works for Nigerians: 

• No university degree required (under the unskilled category) 
• Direct path to a green card (permanent residency) 
• Spouse and children under 21 are included 
• Employer sponsors most of the process 

Step-by-Step Process 

A. Find a U.S. Employer or Recruitment Agency 

• Partner with a licensed U.S.-based immigration attorney or authorized recruiter 
• Common employers include hospitals, restaurants, factories, warehouses 

B. PERM Labor Certification 

• Your employer files a PERM application with the U.S. Department of Labor to prove no U.S. worker is available for the job. 

C. I-140 Petition Filing 

• Employer files Form I-140 with USCIS on your behalf to initiate the green card process. 

D. NVC Processing 

• After approval, your case moves to the National Visa Center, which preps you for the U.S. Embassy interview. 

E. Embassy Interview & Medicals 

• Interview takes place in Lagos or Abuja, along with a medical exam. 
• Upon approval, you get an immigrant visa to travel and settle in the U.S. 

Required Documents for EB-3 (Nigerians) 

A. General Identity Docs: 

• Valid international passport 
• 2×2 U.S. passport photos 
• Birth & marriage certificates 
• Police Character Certificate 

B. Employment Docs: 

• Job offers or contract 
• PERM approval 
• Approved Form I-140 

C. Education/Work Proof: 

• WAEC/NECO (optional for unskilled) 
• CV/resume 
• Letters of experience or training 

D. Medical & Visa Docs: 

• Medical exam + vaccinations 
• DS-260 form & visa appointment confirmation 
• Proof of visa fee payment 
• Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) 

Ensure all documents are translated to English if required. 

EB-1A Extraordinary Ability Green Card 

For Nigerians who are exceptional talents in fields like sports, science, music, academics, business, or arts, the EB-1A visa is a prestigious, direct-to-green card route. You don’t need an employer, sponsor, or even a job offers. You just need to prove that you’re among the best in your field with national or international acclaim. 

Why This Works for Nigerians: 

• No job offers or employer sponsorship required 
• Fast-track to green card (within 8–12 months) 
• Includes spouse and children under 21 
• Ideal for globally accomplished Nigerians in any discipline 

Step-by-Step Process 

A. Prepare Evidence of Extraordinary Ability 

• Show sustained national/international acclaim 
• Meet at least 3 out of 10 USCIS criteria (listed below) 

B. File I-140 Petition (Self-Petition) 

• You file the petition yourself (Form I-140) and can optionally file Form I-485 if you’re already in the U.S. 

C. Wait for USCIS Review 

• Upon approval, you proceed to consular processing (if outside the U.S.) or adjustment of status (if inside) 

Required Documents for EB-1A (Nigerians) 

A. General Identity Docs: 

• Valid international passport 
• Passport photos 
• Birth & marriage certificates 
• Police clearance 

B. Extraordinary Ability Proof (meet 3+ criteria): 

• International or national awards/prizes 
• Media coverage of your work 
• Membership in prestigious organizations 
• Published work in major journals or outlets 
• Judging others’ work in your field 
• Critical contributions in your profession 
• High salary or pay in your field 
• Commercial success or public acclaim 

C. Additional Docs: 

• Personal statement 
• Letters of recommendation 
• CV and portfolio 

Categories Under EB-3 & EB-1A 

Category	Description	Examples
EB-3 Unskilled	No degree or experience needed	Factory workers, cleaners, caregivers
EB-3 Skilled	2+ years of experience in a trade	Mechanics, chefs, welders
EB-3 Professional	Bachelor’s degree required	Engineers, accountants
EB-1A	Proven extraordinary ability (no job offer)	Athletes, scientists, artists, academics

Key Notes for Nigerians: 

• EB-3 is ideal if you’re seeking stable U.S. employment and willing to work in high-demand sectors. 
• EB-1A is ideal if you’re globally recognized in your field—musicians, tech founders, academics, etc. 
• Beware of scams. Only use licensed U.S. attorneys or trusted agencies. 
• Both visas allow spouse and children under 21 to relocate with you and receive green cards too. 

6. Spain – Digital Nomad Visa

Who this is for: 

Freelancers, remote workers, or entrepreneurs with international income. 

Process: 

• Prove your income: At least €2,200/month from outside Spain. 
• Gather documents: Passport, client contracts or job letter, health insurance, background check, proof of accommodation. 

Apply either: 

• From within Spain (as a tourist) or 
• From Nigeria via the Spanish Consulate. 
• Get your residence card valid for 1 year (renewable). 

Travel across Schengen, family can join you, and pathway to permanent residency after 5 years. 

7. Brazil – Visa-Free Entry + Legal Regularization

Who this is for: 

Anyone with a passport looking for an easy entry into South America. 

Process: 

• Fly to Brazil (no visa needed for 90 days). 
• While in Brazil, apply to regularize your stay through: 
• Marriage to a Brazilian 
• Humanitarian visa 
• Language courses 
• Employment opportunities 
• Apply for temporary residence, then upgrade to PR. 

Brazil is affordable, welcoming, and offers citizenship after 4 years of legal stay. 

8. Ireland – Stamp 1G, Critical Skills, and Stamp 0 Visa

Whether you’re relocating as a student graduate, skilled worker, or dependent retiree, Ireland’s smart immigration options require the right documentation. Here’s what you need for each route: 

Stamp 1G Post-Study Work Visa (for graduates of Irish institutions) 

Eligibility: Nigerians who completed a Level 8 (Bachelor’s Hons) or Level 9 (Master’s) degree in Ireland. 

Documents Required: 

• International Passport (valid for at least 12 months) 
• Irish Residence Permit (IRP) from your student visa period 
• Final academic transcript or graduation certificate 
• Proof of full-time enrollment and attendance in Ireland 
• Bank statement showing ability to support yourself (e.g. €3,000+) 
• Health insurance policy covering the period of the permit 
• Completed Stamp 1G application form (online or at local Garda Immigration office) 

Next Step: Apply at your local immigration office in Ireland immediately after completing your studies. 

Critical Skills Employment Permit (for high-demand jobs) 

Eligibility: Nigerians with a job offer in a high-demand field such as ICT, healthcare, engineering, etc. 

Documents Required: 

• International Passport (minimum 6-month validity) 
• Signed job offer letter or contract from an Irish employer 
• Employer’s registration number (with Irish Revenue or CRO) 
• Detailed job description (must match a role on the Critical Skills List) 
• Degree certificate(s) or professional license(s) 
• Work experience letters (to show industry relevance) 
• Passport photo (meeting Irish visa photo guidelines) 
• Visa application form (Long Stay “D” Employment Visa) 
• Health insurance (must be arranged for entry) 
• Police clearance certificate from Nigeria 
• Proof of payment for visa and work permit fees 

Next Step: Employer applies for your Critical Skills permit on the EPOS portal, then you apply for a visa once approved. 

Stamp 0 Visa (for financially independent people, retirees, or visiting dependents) 

Eligibility: Nigerians who wish to reside in Ireland long-term without taking up employment (e.g. retirees, elderly dependents, missionaries). 

Documents Required: 

• International Passport (valid for entire planned stay) 
• Proof of income (minimum €50,000 annually per person) 
• Bank statements for the past 6 months (must show consistent income/savings) 
• Proof of private medical insurance valid in Ireland 
• Proof of accommodation in Ireland (rental lease or host letter) 
• If dependent: Proof of relationship to sponsor in Ireland 
• Letter explaining the purpose of stay and intention not to work 
• Garda (Irish Police) clearance once in-country (if applicable) 
• Visa application form for Long Stay “D” Visa 
• Police clearance certificate from Nigeria 

Next Step: Apply for a Stamp 0 preclearance letter from Irish Immigration Service Delivery (ISD), then apply for the visa. 

9. France – French Language Teachers & Education Professionals

France offers real and structured relocation pathways for Nigerian French teachers and language instructors. With the global push to promote the French language and growing demand for cultural exchange, Nigerian French speakers can take advantage of government-backed teaching assistant programs or skilled worker routes like the Passeport Talent Visa. 

This is especially ideal for Nigerians with a background in French studies, education, or linguistics whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced teacher. 

Why This Works for Nigerians: 

• No tech or STEM background required 
• Demand for French educators and cultural exchange participants 
• Visa includes family and offers path to permanent residency 
• France regularly partners with Anglophone countries for language programs 
• Perfect for French graduates from Nigerian universities (e.g., UNILAG, UI, ABU, UNN) 

Step-by-Step Process 

A. Apply to a Teaching Program or Secure a Job Offer 

There are two main ways for Nigerian French teachers to legally relocate to France: 

• TAPIF (Teaching Assistant Program in France)
  You work as an English assistant in French public schools while improving your own fluency and gaining teaching experience.
• Job Offer from a French Language School or Institution
  Some bilingual or international schools hire foreign French-speaking teachers under the Passeport Talent Visa – Qualified Employee category.

B. Prepare Your Documents 

Depending on the path (TAPIF or job contract), gather the required documents: 

Documents Required (For Nigerians) 

i. General Identity Documents: 

• Valid Nigerian international passport 
• Passport-sized photos (French visa format) 
• Birth certificate 
• Police Character Certificate 
• CV (in French) 
• Motivation letter (in French, especially for TAPIF) 

ii. Education & Experience: 

• French-related university degree (B.A. or M.A. in French, Linguistics, or Education) 
• Transcripts 
• Teaching license or letters of employment (if applicable) 
• DELF/DALF certificate (optional but helpful) 
• Proof of French language proficiency (at least B1–B2) 

iii. Employment Documents (for Job Offers): 

• Signed teaching contract (minimum 1-year) 
• Proof of minimum gross annual salary of €39,000 (for Passeport Talent) 
• Employer’s business registration (SIRET number) 

iv. Supporting Documents: 

• Accommodation proof in France (can be temporary or arranged later) 
• Visa application form (long-stay) 
• Medical certificate 
• Proof of funds (for initial stay if not employer-sponsored) 

v. Family Documents (if applicable): 

• Marriage certificate 
• Children’s birth certificates 
• International passports for each dependent 

Apply for the Visa 

Submit your visa application at VFS Global Lagos or Abuja under one of these categories: 

• VLS-TS Assistant de Langue Étrangère (for TAPIF participants) 
• Passeport Talent – Salarié Qualifié (Qualified Employee) 
• Long-Stay Visa – Salarié (Standard employment visa for teachers) 

Once approved, you’ll receive a long-stay visa and later convert it to a residence permit (titre de séjour) upon arrival in France. 

Pathway to Permanent Residency 

• Residence permits issued under the Passeport Talent route are typically valid for up to 4 years and renewable. 
• After 5 years of legal stay, you’re eligible to apply for permanent residence and later French citizenship. 
• Your spouse and dependent children can relocate with you and receive residency as well. 

Why This Strategy Works 

For Nigerian French teachers, France offers one of the few non-tech relocation routes with a clear legal process, job security, and a smooth path to long-term stay. Whether you join TAPIF for cultural exchange or receive a formal job offer as a qualified language educator, this route is real, legal, and ideal for those passionate about education and Francophone culture. 

Final Advice for Nigerians Planning to Japa 

• Never fake documents. Embassies are smarter than you think. 
• Always research visa requirements from official government websites. 
• Prepare your documents early 
• Learn a language (especially for Germany or Portugal). 
• Avoid agents that promise “guaranteed visas.”