How Much Will It Cost to Move to Canada from Nigeria in 2025: Full Breakdown for Students, Workers, and Families
Moving to Canada from Nigeria can be a life-changing decision, offering access to better job opportunities, world-class education, healthcare, and a higher standard of living. However, this journey involves significant financial planning. Understanding the complete cost breakdown is crucial for a successful and stress-free relocation. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore every expense involved — from visa application fees to flight costs, accommodation, and settlement funds — so you can budget accurately.
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Purpose: Guide readers through every step and cost involved in moving from Nigeria to Canada, including immigration options, visa processes, job titles in demand, education, accommodation, and settlement.
Table of Contents
- Why Move to Canada from Nigeria?
- Canada Immigration Pathways for Nigerians
- Express Entry System and Its Costs
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Student Visa to Canada: Full Cost & Guide
- Family Sponsorship
- Flight Costs from Nigeria to Canada
- Job Opportunities in Canada for Nigerians
- Cost of Living in Canada (City-by-City)
- Proof of Funds and Financial Requirements
- Housing & Accommodation Costs
- Healthcare, Insurance & Education Costs
- Settlement Costs (Transportation, Clothing, Phones)
- Hidden or Unexpected Costs
- Cheapest Way to Move to Canada
- Final Cost Summary Table
- FAQs for Nigerians Moving to Canada
- How This Article Meets AdSense Requirements
1. Why Move to Canada from Nigeria?
Canada remains one of the most sought-after countries for Nigerian immigrants due to:
- Skilled migration programs (e.g., Express Entry, PNP)
- Top-quality education
- Public healthcare system
- High wages and job security
- Welcoming immigration policies
- Safe, stable political environment
Whether you’re a graduate, skilled worker, student, or businessperson, Canada offers a clear path — but at a cost. Let’s dive into every detail.
2. Canada Immigration Pathways for Nigerians
a. Express Entry (Skilled Workers)
Best for educated professionals (engineers, nurses, IT specialists).
b. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
For people targeting specific provinces (e.g., Manitoba, Saskatchewan).
c. Student Visa
Ideal for students seeking international degrees with permanent residency goals.
d. Family Sponsorship
Available if you have a spouse, parent, or relative who is a Canadian PR or citizen.
e. Work Permit (LMIA-based)
If a Canadian employer offers you a job supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
3. Express Entry System and Its Costs
Express Entry is Canada’s flagship system for economic immigration.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age (18–35 ideal)
- Educational qualification (minimum: BSc/HND)
- IELTS or CELPIP language test
- At least 1 year of skilled work experience
- Proof of funds
Express Entry Job Titles (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, 3)
In-demand occupations for Nigerians:
| Category | Sample Job Titles |
|---|---|
| Healthcare | Registered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse, Care Aide |
| IT & Tech | Software Engineer, Data Analyst, Web Developer |
| Engineering | Civil Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Project Manager |
| Skilled Trades | Electrician, Plumber, Carpenter, Welder |
| Finance & Admin | Accountant, Financial Analyst, HR Manager |
| Transport & Logistics | Truck Driver, Logistics Coordinator, Dispatch Clerk |
Costs Breakdown
| Item | CAD | NGN (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Educational Credential Assessment (WES) | $200 | ₦230,000 |
| IELTS Exam (British Council/IDP) | $300 | ₦345,000 |
| Application Processing Fee | $850 | ₦977,500 |
| Right of Permanent Residence Fee | $515 | ₦592,250 |
| Biometrics Fee | $85 | ₦97,750 |
| Medical Exams | – | ₦50,000 – ₦100,000 |
| Police Clearance | – | ₦10,000 – ₦20,000 |
Total: ₦2.3M – ₦3M per person
4. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Each province in Canada has its own immigration streams targeting specific skill shortages.
Top Provinces for Nigerians:
- Manitoba PNP
- Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
- Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
- Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
PNP Cost:
- PNP Application Fees: ₦100,000 – ₦450,000 depending on province
- Total with Express Entry: ₦2.8M – ₦3.5M+
5. Student Visa to Canada: Cost and Process
Ideal for Nigerians under 35 years who want to study and gain permanent residency later.
Top Canadian Schools for Nigerians:
- University of Toronto
- University of Manitoba
- University of Alberta
- Centennial College
- George Brown College
Required Documents:
- Letter of acceptance
- Proof of funds
- Tuition fee payment
- IELTS Academic
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Medicals and biometrics
Costs:
| Item | CAD | NGN (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (yearly avg.) | $15,000 | ₦17,250,000 |
| GIC (Student Direct Stream) | $10,000 | ₦11,500,000 |
| Visa Fee | $150 | ₦172,500 |
| IELTS Academic | $300 | ₦345,000 |
| Medical + Police Clearance | – | ₦150,000 |
Total for Year 1: ₦30M – ₦35M
6. Family Sponsorship
If your spouse, parent, or sibling is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, they can sponsor you.
- Sponsor must meet income requirements
- You don’t need proof of funds
- Processing time: 12–18 months
Estimated Cost: ₦1.5M – ₦2M
7. Flight Costs from Nigeria to Canada
Prices vary depending on time and airline.
| Class | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Economy | ₦800,000 – ₦1.2M |
| Premium Economy | ₦1.2M – ₦1.6M |
| Business Class | ₦2M – ₦3.5M |
Pro Tip: Book 3 months in advance and avoid peak seasons (July–August, December).
8. Job Opportunities in Canada for Nigerians (2025)
Canada is hiring Nigerians in the following roles:
| Sector | In-Demand Jobs | Annual Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| IT & Tech | Software Developer, Cloud Engineer | $75,000 – $120,000 |
| Healthcare | Registered Nurse, Personal Support Worker | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Trades & Transport | Truck Driver, Electrician, Plumber | $45,000 – $80,000 |
| Engineering | Civil, Electrical, Mechanical Engineers | $70,000 – $110,000 |
| Finance | CPA Accountant, Analyst | $60,000 – $100,000 |
Tip: Jobs in rural communities often come with easier PR pathways and cheaper living costs.
9. Cost of Living by City (Monthly)
| City | Rent (1-bed) | Transport | Food | Total Living Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toronto | ₦2.3M | ₦140K | ₦450K | ₦3M+ |
| Calgary | ₦1.4M | ₦120K | ₦350K | ₦2M – ₦2.5M |
| Winnipeg | ₦1.2M | ₦100K | ₦300K | ₦1.7M – ₦2M |
| Halifax | ₦1.3M | ₦110K | ₦350K | ₦1.9M – ₦2.3M |
10. Proof of Funds Requirement
You must show proof of funds for Express Entry (updated yearly).
| Family Size | CAD Amount | NGN (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $14,000 | ₦16.1M |
| 2 People | $17,500 | ₦20.1M |
| 4 People | $26,000 | ₦29.9M |
11. Housing and Accommodation Costs
Initial Stay:
- Airbnb: ₦600K – ₦1M/month
- Hostel: ₦300K – ₦500K
Long-term Lease:
- Apartments require 2–3 months deposit
- Lease agreements must be signed with ID, credit report, job letter (or proof of funds)
12. Healthcare, Insurance & Education
- Healthcare is free in most provinces for PRs
- Private health insurance for students: ₦100K – ₦230K/month
- Public schooling is free for children of PRs or permit holders
13. Settlement Costs
| Item | Cost (NGN) |
|---|---|
| Winter Clothing | ₦250K – ₦400K |
| Phone + SIM Activation | ₦50K – ₦100K |
| Furniture & Essentials | ₦300K – ₦500K |
| Transportation Card | ₦20K – ₦40K |
14. Hidden or Unexpected Costs
- Document notarization
- Courier fees (WES, IRCC)
- Agent or consultant fees (if applicable)
- Delays in processing leading to reapplication costs
15. Cheapest Way to Move to Canada
- Apply for Scholarships
- Choose PNPs with lower competition
- DIY Visa Applications (no agents)
- Target smaller cities
16. Final Summary: How Much Does It Cost?
| Migration Type | NGN Estimate |
|---|---|
| Express Entry (single) | ₦20M – ₦25M |
| Express Entry (family of 4) | ₦55M – ₦65M |
| Student Visa (single) | ₦30M – ₦35M |
| LMIA Job Sponsorship | ₦1.5M – ₦2M (if employer pays fees) |
17. FAQs
Can I move to Canada without IELTS?
No. It’s mandatory for all permanent and temporary immigration streams.
Can I work in Canada while studying?
Yes. You can work 20 hours/week during school and full-time during breaks.
How long does Canada PR take?
6 to 12 months for Express Entry, 12 to 18 months for PNP.