Moving to Canada as a Nigerian 

Why Canada?   

Canada is a top choice for Nigerians looking for better education, quality healthcare, job opportunities, and a higher standard of living. Its diverse society, strong economy, and welcoming immigration policies make it particularly attractive to skilled workers, students, and families wishing to move permanently. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Moving to Canada as a Nigerian   

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility   

Canada has various immigration pathways. The most common options for Nigerians include: 

• Express Entry (for skilled workers)
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
• Study Visa leading to Permanent Residency
• Family Sponsorship
• Work Permits & Job Offers 

Use the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) calculator to check your eligibility for Express Entry. 

Check eligibility here 

Step 2: Choose the Right Immigration Program   

1. Express Entry System  

This system is great for skilled workers and has three streams: 

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC) 

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)  

Each Canadian province selects candidates based on their needs. This is a good option if your CRS score is not high enough for Express Entry. 

3. Study to Immigrate  

Many Nigerians choose to study in Canada first, then apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), and finally seek Permanent Residency through CEC. 

4. Family Sponsorship  

If you have a spouse, parent, or sibling who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, they might be able to sponsor you. 

5. Atlantic Immigration Program / Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot  

These programs are designed to attract people to less-populated regions of Canada. They are beneficial for those with lower CRS scores. 

Step 3: Gather Required Documents   

You’ll typically need: 

• Valid international passport
• Academic certificates (WAEC, Degree, etc.)
• Work reference letters
• Proof of funds
• Police clearance certificate
• Medical exam report
• IELTS General Training result
• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) 

Nigerian degrees must be verified through WES Canada or other approved bodies. 

Step 4: Take the IELTS Exam   

You must demonstrate English language proficiency. Nigerians need to take IELTS General Training for immigration. 

Minimum required band scores: 

• Listening: 6.0–8.0
• Reading: 6.0–7.0
• Writing: 6.0–7.0
• Speaking: 6.0–7.0 

Use your result to improve your CRS score. 

Step 5: Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)   

Your Nigerian degree must be assessed to determine its equivalency to Canadian education standards. Use WES, IQAS, ICES, or CES. 

For WES: 

• Create an account at wes.org/ca
• Pay the fee (about $220 CAD)
• Request transcripts from your Nigerian university (see article #5 for full guide)
• Send documents to WES Canada 

Step 6: Create an Express Entry Profile   

Once your IELTS and ECA are ready: 

• Go to the IRCC website
• Fill in your details accurately
• Submit and wait to enter the Express Entry pool 

Your profile will be ranked using the CRS. 

Step 7: Improve Your CRS Score (if low)   

If your score is below the recent draw cut-off, consider these options to improve: 

• Retake IELTS for a higher score
• Complete a short course (adds Canadian education points)
• Get a valid job offer
• Apply for PNP (adds points) 

Step 8: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)   

• If you’re selected from the Express Entry pool, you’ll receive an ITA.
• You have 60 days to submit your full application. 

Step 9: Submit Your Application   

Upload all supporting documents: 

• Medical exam (from an approved panel physician)
• Police clearance (from Nigeria Police)
• Proof of funds (minimum CAD $13,757 for a single applicant – varies by family size)
• Application forms, passport photos, etc. 

Step 10: Biometrics and Interview (if required)   

• You’ll be asked to provide biometrics at the VFS Global center in Lagos or Abuja.  
• Some applicants may be called for an interview, either in person or virtually. 

Step 11: Wait for Decision and Passport Request (PPR)   

If approved, you’ll receive a PPR. Submit your passport to the Visa Application Center and wait for your COPR (Confirmation of Permanent Residence). 

Step 12: Plan Your Move to Canada   

Get ready for your relocation: 

• Book flights (popular destinations: Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Winnipeg)
• Arrange accommodation
• Carry essential documents and cash
• Attend airport interviews with confidence 

Cost Breakdown (Estimated)

What to Expect as a Nigerian in Canada   

• You can look forward to multicultural cities and large Nigerian communities (especially in Ontario and Alberta).  
• You’ll have access to free healthcare (as a permanent resident).
• Be prepared for cold winters, including snow and below-zero temperatures.
• There are also opportunities for career growth and family settlement.