Canada, being a first-world country has a very robust and organized economy and living high standards.
Besides, the country is multicultural and welcoming to foreigners.
These qualities and more make Canada a beacon of hope for many seeking a better life abroad, including Nigerians.
There is a strong allure for Canada among Nigerians who need a place with almost guaranteed stability, safety, and opportunities.
Before you continue reading this article, you need to see my personal guide on moving to Canada you don’t want to overlook the secret and advice it has helped a lot of people.
In this article, I discuss the different pathways, especially, the easiest ways to immigrate to Canada from Nigeria.
Table of Contents
Immigration to Canada and What It Entails.
Immigration to Canada means moving to Canada to live, work, study, or reunite with family members.
It entails a series of steps and processes that vary depending on the immigration program or category one is applying under.
Below is a detailed breakdown of what immigrating to Canada entails:
1. Eligibility Assessment.
First, you must determine if you’re eligible for any immigration programs.
Canada offers multiple pathways for immigration, including economic programs like Express Entry, family sponsorship, provincial nominee programs, and others.
2. Application Process.
Once you’ve identified a suitable program or pathway to Canada, you’ll need to gather the necessary documents, which may include language test results, educational assessments, job offers, and proof of funds.
Then, you submit your application either online or manually at the immigration office/embassy.
3. Evaluation and Decision.
Canadian immigration authorities will review your application to ensure that it’s complete and assess it against the criteria of the chosen program.
This may involve a points-based system, such as the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) for Express Entry.
4. Post-Decision Steps.
If your application is successful, you’ll be instructed by the immigration office on the next steps to take, which may include medical exams, police certificates, and eventually, the issuance of visas or permanent resident status.
5. Settlement in Canada.
After you’ve arrived in Canada, you’d be encouraged to access settlement services to help you integrate into Canadian society properly.
This includes finding housing, and employment, enrolling children in school (if you came with kids), and learning about life in Canada.
6. Protection against Fraud
Please, be aware and stay clear of fraudulent immigration consultants and scams.
Always verify the credentials of any representative you work with and follow the guidelines provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Don’t miss out;
The Benefits of Immigrating to Canada
Why would/should someone immigrate to Canada?
Canada offers numerous benefits that attract immigrants worldwide, including the following:
- Economic Stability: there’s a thriving job market with opportunities across diverse sectors.
- Universal Healthcare: you have access to a publicly funded healthcare system.
- Quality Education: Canada has many of the world’s top universities and a highly educated workforce.
- Natural Beauty: Canada has breathtaking landscapes and is committed to environmental preservation and natural resource conservation.
- Multicultural Society: Canada is a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity and embraces foreigners into its culture and society.
7 Easiest Ways to Immigrate to Canada from Nigeria.
Below are the 7 easiest pathways to immigrate to Canada from Nigeria:
1. Express Entry `Program.
The Express Entry Program is Canada’s immigration system for skilled workers seeking permanent residence in Canada.
It evaluates candidates based on factors like work experience, education, and language proficiency.
Applicants are scored and ranked in the Express Entry pool using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
Those with the highest scores receive invitations to apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
The program manages three main categories:
- Federal Skilled Worker
- Federal Skilled Trades
- Canadian Experience Class
The Express Entry Program also aligns with the Provincial Nominee Program, offering additional points for provincial nominations.
The process is competitive and requires the preparation of documents like language test results and educational assessments.
2. Student Visa.
Another way to immigrate to Canada from Nigeria is through a Student Visa to study in Canada.
A Student Visa in Canada not only allows for academic pursuit but also serves as a potential bridge to permanent residency in Canada.
Graduates may transition to permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program, or Provincial Nominee Program.
These pathways often require Canadian work experience, which can be obtained through the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program.
3. Family Sponsorship.
Family Sponsorship in Canada is the third way to immigrate to Canada from Nigeria.
This option allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor relatives for permanent residency in Canada.
Eligible sponsors must be at least 18 years old and meet certain income requirements.
The program covers spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, parents, and grandparents.
Family Sponsorship immigration process to Canada involves submitting an Interest to Sponsor Form, followed by a complete application if invited.
Successful sponsees or applicants can live, study, and work in Canada, enjoying the benefits of permanent residency.
It’s a pathway to family reunification, promoting the settlement of families within Canada.
4. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
The fourth way to immigrate to Canada from Nigeria is through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals for immigration who can contribute to their economic development.
Each region has unique criteria reflecting its specific needs, such as labour shortages in key industries.
Successful candidates receive a provincial nomination, which can significantly increase their chances of obtaining permanent residency through the Express Entry system.
The PNP is a critical component of Canada’s immigration strategy, helping to distribute the benefits of immigration across the country by aligning with regional economic priorities.
5. Employment in Canada.
Securing a job with a work permit in Canada is a great way to relocate or immigrate to Canada from Nigeria and achieve permanent residency.
When a Canadian employer extends a job offer to a foreign national, it can open the door to a more stable future in the country.
This process often involves obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the position.
Once the job offer is secured and the work permit granted,
the individual can apply for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Program.
These immigration pathways recognize the valuable contribution of skilled workers to the Canadian economy and society.
Successfully navigating this process can ultimately lead to the coveted status of being a Canadian permanent resident, offering long-term security and opportunities.
It’s a pathway that many pursue in hopes of building a new life in Canada, with access to its high standard of living and diverse cultural landscape.
6. Business or Investment in Canada.
If you’re an entrepreneur, you can relocate or immigrate to Canada or apply for permanent residence in Canada through various business immigration programs.
These programs are designed to attract individuals with the skills and potential to establish or invest in businesses that can contribute to the Canadian economy.
Applicants must demonstrate a successful business history, provide a viable business plan, and have the financial means to establish and operate the business successfully or invest in a business in Canada.
The programs often require a significant investment in Canada and the creation of jobs for Canadians.
Successful applicants can receive permanent residence, which allows them to live and work in Canada indefinitely.
This pathway is ideal for people looking to bring innovation and entrepreneurship to the Canadian market.
Ultimately, it provides a platform for entrepreneurs to thrive and integrate into the Canadian business landscape.
7. Caregiver Programs.
Caregiver programs in Canada offer a pathway to permanent residence in Canada from Nigeria for individuals qualified to provide care for children, the elderly, or those with disabilities.
These programs recognize the essential services caregivers provide and aim to fill the gap in the labour market.
To be qualified for this immigration program, you may be required to show proof of experience in caregiving (optional) and meet specific health and security criteria.
Successful applicants under these programs are granted work permits and, after meeting certain conditions, including duration of work experience, can apply for permanent residency.
This not only benefits the caregivers by providing them with a stable future but also supports Canadian families in need of care services.
It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement that upholds Canada’s commitment to compassionate and inclusive immigration policies.
Caregivers thus become integral members of Canadian society, contributing to the country’s social fabric and economy.
Cost of Immigrating from Nigeria to Canada
The cost of emigrating from Nigeria to Canada can vary depending on several factors, including the immigration program you apply through and the size of your family.
Here’s a breakdown of the potential costs and immigration fees:
Governmental Fees
- Permanent Residency Application Fee: $850 CAD per adult (approximately 876,273.18 NGN).
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee: $515 CAD per adult (around 530, 918.45 NGN).
- Dependent Child Fee: $230 CAD per child (about 237,109.21 NGN).
- Biometrics Fee: $85 CAD for one person or $170 CAD for a family of two or more.
- Canadian Permanent Resident Card: $50 CAD per person (around 51545.48 NGN).
Note that this conversion rate is for Today ( 28th March 2024). Canadian Dollars (CAD) to Nigerian Naira (NGN).
Those rates or numbers might change depending on the time you’re reading this content.
Non-Governmental Expenses
These may include costs for language exams, educational credential assessments, medical exams, and police certificates.
Conclusion
Immigrating to Canada from Nigeria is a journey filled with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
By understanding the easiest pathways and the benefits that await, you can take informed steps towards a new chapter in your life.
