Japa: Top 6 Countries Making It Harder for Nigerians to Relocate

The dream of moving abroad hasn’t faded, but the path is becoming more difficult. Over the past two years, many popular Japa destinations have quietly or aggressively changed their immigration rules, making it a harder, more expensive, and more uncertain process for Nigerians looking to leave.

Here are six countries that have made relocating in 2026 much tougher for Nigerians:

United States: Bonds, Bans, and Stricter Entry

The US has been the most aggressive in tightening its immigration policies under President Donald Trump. In July 2025, the US Embassy announced that Nigerians applying for tourist and business visas would only receive single-entry, three-month permits, instead of multiple-entry visas valid for up to five years. This raised the cost and hassle of visiting the US.

In January 2026, the US introduced a $15,000 visa bond for Nigerians applying for B1/B2 business and tourism visas. The bond must be paid before the visa is approved, which is unaffordable for many Nigerians.

Other restrictions include health condition assessments and requiring visa applicants to disclose their social media handles from the last five years. In December 2025, Nigeria was partially suspended from traveling to the US, along with 15 other African countries.

United Kingdom: Shorter Stays, Higher Costs, No Dependents

The UK has also made significant changes to its immigration rules. Since January 2024, most international students can no longer bring their families with them. Only PhD and postgraduate research students can apply for dependent visas.

From January 2027, the Graduate Route which allowed students to stay and work for two years after graduation will be reduced to just 18 months for bachelor’s and master’s degree holders. PhD holders will still get three years.

Additionally, from January 2026, applicants for the Skilled Worker visa must meet a higher English language requirement, and the maintenance funds required for students have increased. Permanent residency will now take 10 years, up from five.

Canada: Half the Student Spots Gone

Canada used to be a top Japa destination for Nigerian students, but things are changing. The 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan has cut international student permits by 49%, from 305,000 to 155,000. Permanent residency targets have also dropped, and Canada is now prioritizing applicants who are already in the country over those applying from abroad.

The Express Entry system still runs, but competition has increased, and processing times are longer.

Saudi Arabia: Skill-Based Controls Tighten

Saudi Arabia has always attracted Nigerian healthcare workers, teachers, and engineers. However, the process for securing work visas has become more selective. In July 2025, Saudi Arabia introduced a new skill-based classification system for work permits. This means Nigerians without qualifications aligned to the country’s labor needs face longer waits and more documentation.

New Zealand: Closing the Gap on Easy Entry

New Zealand was once a popular destination for skilled Nigerians, but it has also tightened its migration policies. The Green List for high-demand jobs still exists, but the list of qualifying roles has narrowed. More stringent qualification and salary requirements have made it harder for Nigerian professionals to move there.

Australia: Costs Rise, Competition Increases

Australia remains open to skilled workers, but costs have increased. Visa application fees have gone up, and the skills assessment process now requires more documentation and takes longer. The Skills in Demand visa, introduced in 2024, targets high-wage roles, leaving out many entry-level applicants.

What This Means for Nigerians

The Japa wave isn’t over, but it’s slowing down and becoming more selective. Countries that were once relatively easy to access now require more proof of funds, higher English scores, and stronger qualifications. In some cases, applicants must also pay a visa bond before even being considered.

For Nigerians looking to relocate, the message is clear: early preparation, verified qualifications, financial documentation, and a realistic timeline are now the baseline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which countries are making it hardest for Nigerians to relocate in 2026?
The six countries with the most significant restrictions are the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Saudi Arabia, New Zealand, and Australia. They have introduced tougher visa rules, increased financial requirements, and cut the number of available spots.

What is the $15,000 visa bond for Nigerians going to the US?
From January 2026, Nigerians applying for B1/B2 tourist and business visas to the US must pay a $15,000 bond before their visa is approved. This bond is separate from visa fees and applies to countries the US considers high-risk for overstaying.

How has the UK changed its student visa rules for Nigerians?
Since January 2024, the UK no longer allows most international students to bring dependents. It has also raised financial maintenance requirements, increased English language standards for Skilled Worker visas, and reduced the Graduate Route for post-study work from two years to 18 months starting in January 2027.

Has Canada reduced its intake of Nigerian students?
Yes. Canada has cut its international student permits by nearly 49% in 2026, from 305,000 to 155,000. Permanent residency targets have also been reduced.

Is it still possible for Nigerians to relocate abroad in 2026?
Yes, but it requires more preparation than before. Strong qualifications, high English proficiency, and clear financial documentation are now necessary for most top destinations.

Are there alternative countries Nigerians can relocate to in 2026?
Yes. Portugal, Germany, and Ireland still offer accessible pathways for skilled workers and remote earners. Portugal’s D7 visa and Germany’s Opportunity Card are gaining popularity as alternatives to traditional destinations.