Nigerians Seek Alternative Migration Routes Amid Dollar Squeeze and Stricter Visa Policies
As Nigeria grapples with a worsening foreign exchange crisis, aspiring emigrants are shifting their focus away from traditional destinations like the US, UK, and Canada. Since President Bola Tinubu’s decision to float the naira in June 2023, the currency has plunged from N460 to over N1,500 to the dollar, significantly inflating the cost of migration. With rising expenses for flight tickets, visa fees, and other relocation costs, many Nigerians are exploring alternative European countries such as Portugal, Finland, Hungary, and Sweden, which offer lower visa requirements, cheaper living costs, and clearer pathways to permanent residency.
The devaluation of the naira has made international relocation increasingly expensive, as highlighted by developmental economist Illias Aliyu, who pointed out that global job trends, including remote work, might lessen the need for physical migration. Tightened immigration regulations in countries like the UK and Canada have further complicated the migration process. For example, the UK has restricted international students from bringing dependants unless enrolled in specific postgraduate programs, while Canada has made its student permit system more competitive and eliminated the Student Direct Stream, which previously helped Nigerian students gain access to study permits.
The stricter immigration policies have been a significant deterrent for many Nigerians, especially students seeking educational opportunities abroad. Travel consultant Maureen Chimaobi observed a notable decline in inquiries for studying abroad in 2025, especially among those accustomed to applying to multiple universities. The rising costs associated with visa processing and the need to convert large sums of naira into foreign currency have only added to the burden, leading many prospective migrants to reconsider their plans.
In response to the tightening access to foreign exchange, Nigerians are increasingly turning to informal financing methods, such as loans from cooperative societies or peer-to-peer lending platforms, to cover the costs of migration. Some are also exploring government-backed scholarships or work-study programs in countries where migration is less costly. In a shift towards practical strategies, aspiring emigrants are advised to first gain admission into foreign schools and then secure financing, with many relying on loans that are repaid once they have settled abroad. Countries in Europe, particularly those offering relatively easy residency pathways, are now seen as viable alternatives for Africans seeking education and migration opportunities.
Source: punch