10 Things Nigerians Must Know Before Choosing a Country to Relocate To

Relocating abroad is no longer just a dream, it has become a strategic decision driven by career goals, education, safety, or a better quality of life. And such decisions can't be taken by just following the bandwagon , But the truth is simple: not every country is suitable for every Nigerian, and the wrong choice can turn “japa” into regret.

Here are 10 critical things every Nigerian must know before deciding where to migrate to.

Visa Route Matters More Than the Country Itself

Study visa, skilled worker visa, asylum, work permit, family sponsorship each comes with different rights. Some countries allow you to work full-time as a student, some don’t. Some visas lead to permanent residency, some never will. Do not choose a country only because others are going there , choose based on visa type and long-term outcome.

Cost of Relocation Isn’t Just Flight and Visa

You must budget for proof of funds, rent deposit (often 3–6 months upfront), health insurance, and settling-in expenses. Many people relocate and end up stranded because they only planned for visa fees and airfare.

Not Every Degree or Skill Is Recognized Everywhere

A Nigerian nurse, lawyer, teacher, or engineer may need recertification. Ask yourself: Will my qualification be accepted? How long will it take before I can work in my profession? Will I need to start from scratch? In many cases, a skilled artisan gets a job faster than a degree holder.

Language Barrier Is Real

You may admire countries like Germany, France, or Qatar, but can you live, school, or work where English is not the main language? Without the local language, your job options and career growth will be limited.

Permanent Residency Is Not Automatic

Some countries allow you to work for years without ever giving permanent residency or citizenship. Middle Eastern countries like UAE and Qatar fall into this category. Countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand have structured PR systems. The UK has a path to PR, but it requires stable income and at least five years of legal stay.

Your Career Field Determines Your Success Abroad

Some professions relocate more smoothly than others. Health workers, tech talent, logistics workers, and construction artisans are in high demand. Meanwhile, banking, media, law, and public sector careers are harder to transfer due to licensing and limited openings.

Cost of Living Can Destroy Your Plans

A high salary does not guarantee comfort abroad. Rent, taxes, transport, and utilities in countries like Canada or the UK can wipe out earnings. Meanwhile, lower salaries in Portugal or Poland may offer better purchasing power. Do not judge a country by salary, judge by cost of living.

Racism and Immigration Bias Exist Everywhere

 Skin colour, accent, name, or passport can affect job opportunities, housing, and social acceptance. Some countries are more open, some are not. Do not rely on social media narratives know the real climate before relocating.

Healthcare, Weather, and Lifestyle Affect Mental Health

 Moving from Lagos heat to minus-degree winter in Canada is not a simple adjustment. Many Nigerians face loneliness, depression, and cultural shock after relocating. Relocation is not only financial, it is emotional, mental, and physical.

Does Not Automatically Equal Success

 Some Nigerians abroad are thriving. Others are working multiple jobs and barely surviving. Some regret leaving. Others return home to restart life. Success depends on planning, skillset, adaptability, and clear goals , not on the country alone.

 Relocation is not an escape plan. It is an intentional, research-based move. Before packing bags, understand the system, prepare realistically, and accept both the opportunities and the sacrifices that come with migration.