For many Nigerian graduates and professionals who pursue studies abroad, having a post-work visa is crucial to gaining international work experience and career advancement. There are some countries that have simple channels for Nigerian students and workers to stay after studies or work. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the simplest 10 countries to get a post-work visa, including eligibility criteria, step-by-step application processes, and other advice.
1. Canada – Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Why Canada?
Canada has one of the most relaxed post-work visa programs for international students, including Nigerians. The PGWP allows graduates to work in Canada for three years.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must have completed a study program of at least 8 months in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Must apply within 180 days of last results.
- Must have been in full-time student status during the period of study.
Application Process:
- Obtain your final transcripts and completion letter.
- Apply online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
- Pay the application fee (CAD 255).
- Wait for approval (processing time is about 90 days).
Tip: Having a job in Canada after PGWP can make you eligible for permanent residence under Express Entry.
2. United Kingdom – Graduate Route Visa
Why the UK?
UK’s Graduate Route makes the Nigerian students’ capacity to stay and work in the UK for two years (three for PhD holders) following graduation accessible.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Qualification completed in a UK-approved institution.
- Being in the UK at the application stage.
- Work offer need not be first received.
Application Procedure:
- Click onto the UK Home Office website and complete the application form.
- Pay the visa (£715) along with Immigration Health Surcharge.
- Submit needed documents and biometric details.
- Wait for processing (usually 8 weeks).
Tip: Apply under the Graduate Route as a steppingstone to a Skilled Worker Visa.
3. Australia – Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Why Australia?
Australia enables Nigerian graduates to stay and work in Australia for 2-4 years, depending on the qualification level.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Completed a minimum of 2 years of study in Australia.
- Must pass English proficiency tests.
- Must apply within 6 months of finishing the course.
Application Process:
- Gather necessary documents (passport, transcripts, results of English tests, etc.).
- Apply online through the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
- Pay visa fee (AUD 1,680).
- Wait for processing (takes around 4 months).
Tip: Apply for skilled visa on this permit to increase your chances of permanent residence.
4. Germany – Job Seeker Visa
Why Germany?
Germany allows Nigerian graduates to stay in the country for 18 months after graduation to look for employment.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Valid degree from a German university.
- Proof of financial stability (about €861 per month).
- Health insurance cover.
Application Process:
- Book an appointment at the German embassy.
- Submit application form, passport, proof of finance, and health insurance.
- Undergo visa interview.
- Get approval (processing time is 6-8 weeks).
Tip: After working, you can switch to work visa or EU Blue Card.
5. New Zealand – Post-Study Work Visa
Why New Zealand?
New Zealand allows graduates to stay for up to three years following studies, depending on the qualification level.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Attained a qualification in an approved institution.
- Apply within 3 months of the student visa expiration.
Application Process:
- Fill an online application on Immigration New Zealand’s website.
- Provide proof of qualification, passport, and medical certificates.
- Pay the application fee (NZD 700).
- Wait for processing (takes up to 8 weeks).
Tip: Be employed within this period to qualify for a Work to Residence visa.
6. Ireland – Third Level Graduate Programme
Why Ireland?
Ireland offers Nigerian graduates up to two years of post-study work opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Had a degree from a recognized Irish institution.
- Possessed a valid student visa at the time of application.
Application Process:
- Make application with the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service (INIS).
- Pay application fee (€300).
- Submit graduation proof and finance.
- Wait for approval (processing time is 6-8 weeks).
Tip: Get work in high-demand sectors to transition to a Critical Skills Employment Permit.
7. Netherlands – Orientation Year Visa
Why the Netherlands?
This visa allows Nigerian graduates to stay in the country for one year to find work.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Should have done a master’s, PhD, or research program in the Netherlands.
- Application should be made within three years of graduation.
Application Process:
- Apply online at the IND website.
- Provide evidence of education, passport, and biometric information.
- Pay visa fee (€ 192).
- Get a decision (processing time is 90 days).
Tip: Secure a high-skilled job to qualify for a Highly Skilled Migrant Permit.
8. Sweden – Job Seeker Visa
Why Sweden?
Sweden allows non-EU graduates to stay up to one year to search for work.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Graduated from a Swedish university.
- Should have sufficient funds to support yourself.
Application Process:
- Apply online with the Swedish Migration Agency.
- Pay application fee (SEK 1,500).
- Show required documents (degree, proof of funds, etc.).
- Become approved (takes up to 3 months).
Tip: If employed, shift to a Work Permit.
9. Portugal – Job Seeker Visa
Why Portugal?
Portugal invites Nigerians to live for a period of up to six months as they look for work.
Eligibility Criteria:
- A completion of higher education degree.
- Evidence of means of financial support and accommodation.
Application Process:
- Make an appointment with the Portuguese consulate.
- Send passport, proof of education, and financial means.
- Pay visa fee (PTE 90).
- Wait for approval (up to 60 days of processing).
Tip: Apply for a residence permit or work visa upon being employed.
10. France – Talent Passport Visa
Why France?
France has a visa option to live and work by allowing talented professionals.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be from a French educational institution with a degree.
- Must get hired for an eligible sector.
Application Process:
- Online apply on France Visa Portal.
- Application fee is payable (€269).
- Provide employment contract and educational credentials.
- Wait for approval (which may take as long as 3 months).
If you are a Nigerian professional or graduate looking to seek post-work visa opportunities, the following 10 states present some of the easiest paths. By following diligent attention to application procedures and achieving the requirements, you can maximize your chances at obtaining a work visa and finally relocating to permanent residence.
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