Canada‘s Immigration Levels Plan sets an ambitious goal of welcoming 465,000 new permanent residents by the end of 2023, with an increased target of 500,000 by 2025. In 2022, Nigeria emerged as Canada‘s fourth-leading source country for immigration, contributing 22,085 new residents, constituting 5.05% of the total permanent residents in the country. Notably, Canada is home to over 100,000 individuals of Nigerian descent, attracted by the country’s economic opportunities, political stability, world-renowned education system, and advanced healthcare infrastructure.
Eligibility for Canadian Immigration
For those seeking immigration opportunities from Nigeria to Canada, the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) stands out, particularly for individuals without a Canadian job offer or connection to the country. Managed through the Express Entry system, the FSWP targets foreign skilled workers possessing work experience, education, language skills, and other essential factors for successful integration into Canada. Eligibility criteria include:
- One year of continuous full-time or equivalent paid work experience in the past decade in a skilled occupation under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) categories 0, 1, 2, or 3.
- Validated language proficiency equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in English or French across all abilities.
- A Canadian educational credential or foreign credential with an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report.
- A minimum of 67 points on IRCC’s six immigration selection factors.
- Adequate financial resources for settling in Canada.
Upon confirming eligibility, applicants can upload their Express Entry profile on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website, receiving a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on various factors. Recently introduced category-based draws within Express Entry prioritize candidates with strong French language proficiency or experience in specific professions, including healthcare, STEM, trades, transport, and agriculture.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) as an Alternative
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) offers another avenue for Nigerian nationals to immigrate to Canada. Each province and territory (excluding Quebec and Nunavut) designs immigration pathways according to their specific demographic and labor market needs. Candidates can apply directly through a PNP program or enter the Express Entry pool, potentially receiving an additional 600 CRS points if nominated by a province.
Work Permit Opportunities
Nigerian foreign nationals also have the option to work in Canada through a Canadian work permit. The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP) are the two main programs, with the former requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). In some cases, an open work permit allows flexibility without being tied to a specific employer.
Educational Pathways and Study Permits
Canada has become a preferred destination for international students, with a record 551,405 students from 184 countries in 2022. Nigerian students, numbering over 16,000 in 2023, can choose from over 1,500 designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. A study permit not only facilitates education but also offers opportunities to work during studies and presents a pathway to permanent residency post-graduation. Federal and provincial programs often prioritize candidates with Canadian education and work experience, enhancing the overall immigration experience.