The strong economy, quality education, and immigrant-friendly policies of Canada make it one of the top destinations for Nigerians seeking permanent residency. Skilled workers, students, and families are now more likely to migrate permanently to Canada thanks to government initiatives. Applicants from Nigeria can follow a step-by-step process to achieve their goals.
Step 1: Learn more about the Canada PR process
Nigerians can apply for permanent residency through several immigration programs:
- Programs such as Express Entry (Skilled Workers, Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and Federal Skilled Trades).
- The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is open to applicants nominated by Canadian provinces.
- Sponsorship by a family member (if you have a spouse, parent, or close relative living in Canada).
- Route to Permanent Residence (study in Canada, then apply for PR once you have gained Canadian work experience).
Nigerians usually apply through Express Entry or PNPs.
Step 2: Check your eligibility
The following requirements must be met:
- For Express Entry points, you must be under 45 years old.
- At least a secondary school diploma or a higher education degree is required.
- A minimum of one year of experience in a skilled field is required.
- For English, take the IELTS/CELPIP test or for French, take the TEF test.
- Unless you are already working or studying in Canada, you need to show proof of settlement funds.
Step 3: Take a language test
- Sit for IELTS General or CELPIP (English).
- It is also possible to study TEF (French) if you are fluent in the language.
- Points are awarded for higher scores in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
Step 4: Take the Education Assessment (ECA)
- Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from an approved organization (e.g., WES, IQAS, ICES).
- Nigerian degrees and diplomas are recognized as equivalent to Canadian degrees and diplomas.
Step 5: Create the Express Entry profile
- Let us know your age, your education, your work experience, your language scores, and your family situation.
- Based on your CRS points, your profile is entered into the Express Entry pool.
Step 6: Request an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- A CRS score that meets the cutoff will earn you an ITA.
- Permanent residency can now be applied for formally with an ITA.
Step 7: Fill out and submit the PR application
- Get passports, IELTS results, ECAs, work reference letters, police certificates, and proof of funds.
- Within 60 days of receiving the ITA, submit your complete PR application online.
- Fees for the application (processing fee + permanent residency fee).
Step 8: Biometrics and medical examinations
- At a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Nigeria, you must provide fingerprints and a photo.
- Obtain a medical examination from a physician on the panel.
Step 9: Wait for processing
- Under Express Entry, the processing time usually ranges from 6 to 12 months.
- During this time, you may receive requests for additional documents.
Step 10: Obtain a Certificate of Permanent Residence (COPR)
- You will receive a COPR and a PR visa stamp in your passport once you have been approved.
- As a permanent resident, you can now travel to Canada.
Step 11: Apply for a Permanent Resident card after moving to Canada
- Present your COPR to a border officer upon arrival.
- A PR card will be mailed to your Canadian address.
- After meeting residency requirements, PRs can apply for citizenship after living, working, and studying in Canada.
The final thoughts
Language tests, credential assessments, Express Entry profiling, and formal PR applications are all steps in the Canada PR process from Nigeria. If Nigerians prepare properly and submit their applications on time, they can secure permanent residency in Canada and begin a new chapter in their lives.