Are you a Nigerian with dreams of migrating to Canada for a better life? Well, you’re not alone. Thousands of Nigerians have successfully made the move, and you can too!
Canada holds a magnetic appeal for Nigerians, driven by the promise of diverse economic opportunities across sectors such as oil and gas, information and communication technology, healthcare, and various science and engineering domains. This makes Canada an enticing choice, especially for skilled Nigerian professionals seeking a better life abroad.
Most Nigerians choose the path of skilled workers under the economic class, capitalizing on their qualifications to access the numerous Canadian immigration programs.
Nigerians are often well-suited for Canadian immigration programs, boasting high English proficiency, commendable education levels, and valuable work experience. Among the array of choices, two standout options for Nigerians seeking Canadian residency are the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Provincial Nominee Program.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various immigration programs, providing the key information you need to turn your Canadian dream into reality.
Why Canada?
With its political stability, security, thriving economy, and excellent healthcare, Canada is a beacon of opportunity for many Nigerians seeking a better life. In 2021 alone, over 15,000 Nigerians were granted permanent residency in Canada, making it one of the top choices for migration.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
What is FSW?
The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW) is a fantastic opportunity for skilled workers in Nigeria to contribute to the Canadian economy and gain permanent residency. The program considers managerial, professional, and technical job experiences.
How to Increase Your CRS Score
Improving your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is crucial for success. Focus on your age, language skills, education, work experience, and Canadian connections. Higher scores increase your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
No Degree, No Problem
Unlike FSW, the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST) is an excellent choice for skilled workers without a formal degree. This program welcomes individuals with experience in industrial, electrical, construction trades, chefs, and more.
Express Entry Pool and CRS
Like FSW, FST applicants enter a pool and are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). While education isn’t mandatory, having secondary or post-secondary education enhances your CRS score.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Tailored Immigration
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows applicants to align with a specific province’s economic needs, providing a unique pathway to permanent residency. A provincial nomination adds 600 points to your CRS score, almost guaranteeing an invitation.
Express Entry Collaboration
PNP applications are processed through Express Entry, ensuring candidates are ranked using CRS scores. Learn more about this efficient route to Canadian residency.
Agri-food Pilot Program
Embracing Diversity
The Agri-food Pilot Program caters to Canada’s agri-food sector, offering opportunities for Nigerians with meat product manufacturing, farming, and animal production skills. A secondary school education, one year of work experience, and language proficiency are prerequisites.
How to Apply
Discover the steps to apply for this program, opening doors for Nigerians in agriculture-related fields.
Caregiver Programs
A Caring Pathway
Canada acknowledges the need for caregivers, creating programs for those with experience in childcare, elderly care, and housekeeping. This could be your ticket to Canada if you have at least one year of relevant experience.
Program Variety
Explore the three caregiver programs: Live-in caregiver, Home child care provider, and Home support worker program, each tailored to specific caregiving experiences.
Study Permits
Studying for a Better Future
Consider obtaining a study permit as a gateway to Canada. While valid for your studies, it positions you for a post-graduate work permit after graduation, providing valuable Canadian work experience.
Benefits of Studying in Canada
Uncover the advantages of studying in Canada, including the weight Canadian degrees carry when applying for permanent residency.
Family Sponsorship
Family Reunification
If you have family in Canada, leverage family sponsorship programs for a smoother migration process. The sponsor must be at least 18 years old, residing in Canada when the sponsored family member arrives, and capable of providing financial support.
Easier Path with Family Ties
Explore how having family in Canada can ease your journey, reflecting Canada’s commitment to reunification.
Final Thoughts
More than just a term, ‘japa’ represents the aspirations of countless Nigerians wanting to migrate to Canada. With over 15,000 success stories in 2021, there’s ample hope. Review the programs, choose the one that suits you best, and embark on your journey to a beautiful new life in Canada.
FAQs: How To Migrate To Canada From Nigeria
- Can I apply to multiple immigration programs simultaneously?
- Absolutely! Applying to multiple programs increases your chances of success.
- What role does language proficiency play in immigration programs?
- Proficiency in English or French is crucial for most programs, enhancing your CRS score.
- Is having a job offer in Canada necessary for immigration?
- While beneficial, it’s not mandatory. Programs like PNP and FSW provide pathways without a job offer.
- Can I bring my family with me when I migrate to Canada?
- Family sponsorship programs allow permanent residents to bring their family members to Canada.
- Are there age restrictions for migration programs?
- Most programs don’t have strict age limits, but younger applicants often receive higher CRS scores.
- How much does it cost to immigrate to Canada from Nigeria?Immigrating to Canada from Nigeria is generally about CAD 2,300 for a single applicant or about $4,500 CAD for a couple. This amount will also vary depending on which program you are applying through.
Remember that this total does not include the settlement funds most candidates must show to be eligible for Canadian immigration; this amount will vary by family size, starting at around CAD 13,000 for a single applicant.
- Do I need the IELTS to immigrate to Canada from Nigeria?If you want to immigrate to Canada from Nigeria, you must take one of Canada’s official language exams. Almost all Canadian immigration programs require candidates to provide French or English language results from an authorized organization.
To demonstrate your English language ability, you can take either the IELTS or CELPIP test. Both CELPIP and IELTS have testing locations in Nigeria.
The Canadian government does not have a preferred test; you can choose whichever is most convenient.
