How To Relocate To Canada as a Nigerian

Introduction.

Thinking about moving to Canada from Nigeria? If you’re considering making the big leap, you’re not alone. More Nigerians are choosing Canada as their new home, and it’s easy to see why.

With its stable economy, high quality of life, and welcoming culture, Canada is an attractive destination for many looking for new opportunities.

But the process of relocating isn’t as simple as booking a flight. There’s a lot of paperwork, rules, and guidelines to follow. Don’t worry, though—I’m here to break it all down for you.

Moving to Canada from Nigeria can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. Whether you’re looking to study, work, or reunite with family, you need to know exactly what steps to take and how to prepare.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the relocation process. From visas to accommodation to the cultural differences you might face once you arrive—I’ve got it covered.

This article will cover the different ways you can move to Canada from Nigeria, the documents you’ll need, how to apply for visas, and tips on settling in once you get there.

By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of the whole process, and hopefully, feel ready to start your journey to Canada.

Why Canada?

Before diving into the logistics of the move, it’s important to understand why so many Nigerians choose Canada as their destination.

Canada has a long history of being one of the most immigrant-friendly countries in the world. In fact, about 21% of Canada’s population is made up of immigrants, with a large number coming from countries like India, China, and, yes, Nigeria. In 2022, nearly 13,000 Nigerians made Canada their home, and the number keeps rising each year.

The country offers excellent healthcare, a strong education system, and great career opportunities in various industries. Plus, Canada is known for its high levels of safety and security, making it a popular choice for families and young professionals.

However, moving to Canada as a Nigerian does require careful planning and understanding of the immigration system. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to make your relocation process smooth and successful.

Step 1: Determine the Right Visa for You.

The first thing you need to do is figure out what type of visa you need to move to Canada. The most common options are:

1. Student Visa: If you’re planning to study in Canada, you’ll need a study permit. Canada is home to world-renowned universities and colleges, and many Nigerian students choose to pursue higher education there. To get a student visa, you must first be accepted into a Canadian school, provide proof of funds to show you can support yourself, and show you intend to return to Nigeria after your studies.
2. Work Visa: If you’re looking to work in Canada, you’ll need a work permit. There are different categories of work permits, including open work permits (which allow you to work for any employer) and employer-specific work permits (which are tied to a specific job offer). Canada is always looking for skilled workers, especially in fields like healthcare, engineering, and IT, so there may be options available for you if you meet the requirements.
3. Permanent Residency (PR): If you plan to live in Canada permanently, you may want to apply for permanent residency. The Express Entry system is one of the most popular ways to apply for PR. The program uses a point-based system to select candidates based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills. If you score high enough in these areas, you’ll be invited to apply for PR. Other pathways include provincial nominee programs (PNPs), which are for individuals who want to live in specific provinces in Canada.
4. Family Sponsorship: If you have close family members who are already Canadian citizens or permanent residents, they might be able to sponsor you for a permanent residence visa. This process can take a while, but it’s an option for those with relatives in Canada.

Step 2: Understand the Requirements.

Each visa type has specific requirements that you’ll need to meet. For example, if you’re applying for a study permit, you’ll need to prove that you have been accepted by a Canadian institution and that you can afford your tuition and living expenses.

If you’re applying for a work permit, you may need a job offer from a Canadian employer or meet certain qualifications for certain industries.

Some basic documents you’ll likely need include:

• Valid passport
• Proof of financial support (bank statements, scholarship letters, etc.)
• Educational qualifications (transcripts, certificates)
• Job offer (for work visas)
• Medical exam (for some types of visas)
• Police certificate (to prove you have no criminal record)

It’s crucial to submit all the required documents accurately and on time, as mistakes or missing information can delay the process or even result in your application being rejected.

Step 3: Submit Your Application.

Once you’ve decided on the right visa and gathered all the necessary documents, it’s time to submit your application.

You can apply online through the official Canadian immigration website or a Canadian Visa Application Center (CVAC).

The process will include submitting your application, paying the application fees, and sometimes attending an interview or providing biometrics (fingerprints and photos).

The processing time for a visa application can vary, depending on the type of visa you’re applying for and how many applications the government is processing at the time.

Typically, it takes several months, so be patient and make sure you stay updated on the status of your application.

Step 4: Prepare for Your Move.

Once your visa is approved, it’s time to prepare for the big move! There’s a lot to do before you leave Nigeria, including:

1. Finding accommodation: You can start by looking for housing options online. Whether you plan to rent an apartment or stay with family, you’ll want to secure a place to stay before you arrive.
2. Booking a flight: Flights from Nigeria to Canada can be pricey, but booking in advance may help you find more affordable options. Be sure to check the requirements for COVID-19 testing or any other travel restrictions that might be in place at the time of your trip.
3. Sorting your finances: Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD), so you’ll need to exchange your Naira for CAD. It’s also a good idea to open a Canadian bank account to help manage your finances when you arrive.
4. Packing: Canada’s weather can be drastically different from Nigeria’s, so pack accordingly. Winters can be extremely cold, so don’t forget to bring warm clothing if you’re arriving during that season.

Step 5: Adjust to Life in Canada.

After you’ve arrived in Canada, it’s time to start adjusting to life in your new country. This can take some time, especially when dealing with cultural differences, weather changes, and setting up a new life. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Cultural adjustment: Canada is diverse, and you’ll likely encounter people from all over the world. Take the time to learn about Canadian culture, traditions, and social norms.
• Health care: As a new resident, you may be eligible for Canada’s public healthcare system, depending on the province you live in. You’ll need to apply for a health card to access medical services.
• Building a network: Join communities or organizations that can help you feel more at home, whether they’re Nigerian communities in Canada or groups for newcomers. This can help you build friendships and find support as you settle in.

FAQs

1. How much money do I need to move to Canada from Nigeria?

The amount of money required varies depending on your visa type. For student visas, for instance, you’ll need to show you can support yourself financially.

The amount is typically around CAD 10,000 per year for living expenses.

For work visas or permanent residency, you may need a higher amount depending on your family size and whether you’ll have a job upon arrival.

2. How long does it take to get a Canadian visa from Nigeria?

Processing times can vary. Student visas generally take around 2-3 months, while work permits and permanent residency applications can take longer, depending on the type and the complexity of the case.

3. Can I work while studying in Canada?

Yes, most students are allowed to work part-time while studying in Canada, up to 20 hours per week during the school year and full-time during breaks.

Conclusion

Relocating to Canada from Nigeria is a big step that can open up many doors for you. While the process can seem long and complicated, the rewards are well worth it. From better job prospects to a higher quality of life, Canada offers numerous opportunities for Nigerians seeking a fresh start.

Are you ready to take the leap and make Canada your new home?