Top 3 Destinations for Nigerians who wish to JAPA

The Nigerian youth migration trend, also known as JAPA, has seriously been on the rise, with young people seeking greener pastures outside the shores of Nigeria. This trend is driven by a range of factors, including the high unemployment rate in Nigeria, and the desire for better living standards. These factors, coupled with the limited opportunities for personal and professional growth, have made the JAPA trend an attractive option for many Nigerian youths. If you are looking to join the bandwagon, here are the top 3 destinations you should consider for your migration:

CANADA

Canada is an open country that welcomes immigrants and offers a range of opportunities for those who are willing to work hard. The country has a well-established immigration system that makes it easy for skilled workers to obtain visas. There is also a stable economy that provides numerous opportunities, a high standard of living, and a robust social welfare system. There are different methods for foreign applicants to migrate to Canada. However, the top-ranking and commonly used method is Express Entry, which is a fast and widely favored immigration program. Eligibility for the program demands meeting the requirements for one of Canada's federal streams which include:

Federal skilled worker program

The program is designed to attract highly skilled workers who will contribute to Canada's economy. To be eligible for the FSW program, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Language proficiency: Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in French or English by taking an approved language test.

Education: Candidates must have at least a Canadian high school diploma or a foreign educational equivalent.

Work experience: Candidates must have at least one year of skilled work experience in a qualifying occupation. 

Above all, the candidate must score at least 67 out of 100 in the FSW selection grid.

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Federal skilled trades

The program is specially created to address the shortage of skilled workers in the trade sector in Canada. To be eligible for the FST program, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Language proficiency: Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English or French by taking an approved language test.

Work experience: Candidates must have at least two years of full-time work experience in a qualifying skilled trade.

Education: Candidates must have either a Canadian high school diploma or a foreign educational equivalent.

Job offer: Candidates must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer for at least one year.

Canadian Experience Class

The program is majorly for foreign workers who have gained skilled work experience in Canada and can now apply for permanent residency. Candidates must have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the past three years. They must also be proficient in English or French. 

The other options available for Nigerian immigrants include the provincial nominee program, Business immigration, and sponsorship.

UNITED STATES

The United States has long been a popular destination for Nigerian youths seeking better opportunities. With its strong economy and diverse population, the US gives a range of opportunities for those looking to build a new life. 

To obtain a U.S. visa, determine the type suitable for you before making decisions. You can get an immigrant visa for permanent residency or a non-immigrant visa for a temporary stay. However, whatever decision you make, you need to fill out the DS-160 form (for non-immigrants) or DS-260 form (for immigrants) and pay the visa application fee. Ensure that all provided spaces are filled out correctly and appropriately. After filling out the form, you will book an interview with the embassy using your DS-160 or DS-260 form number, whichever applies to you. While going for your interview, note that it is essential to go along with the following documents:

• Your international passport 

• Your visa fee payment receipt

• The 10-digit barcode number on your DS-160 or DS-260 confirmation page.

It is also necessary that you have a solid and well-funded bank account because you will need to provide proof during your process of application. By solid, it means that you must have been making frequent transactions with the account. Do not miss your interview at the embassy for anything, and most importantly, be sure that you have all of the necessary documents with you. While you try all you can on your part, it is usually better to have someone in the U.S. who can stand in for you as a sponsor, it makes the process a lot easier. 

UNITED KINGDOM 

Relocation to the UK is another opportunity to enjoy the bounty of opportunities outside of Nigeria. However, several processes and requirements need to be fulfilled. These include obtaining a visa and registering with various authorities. Since most youths gain skills and would most likely Japa on a work basis, here is what you need to know:

• Apply for a Tier 2 visa (only if you have received a job offer from a UK employer)

• Have enough savings

• Have a certificate of sponsorship from your employer. 

• You must be able to speak, read and write English language. (You may need to take the TOEFL or IELTS exams to prove this)

To apply for your UK work visa, you will need the following documents:

• Proof of English proficiency 

• A valid passport

• Job occupation code

• Job title and annual salary

• Employer identity which will be on the certificate of sponsorship

• Certificate of a sponsorship reference number 

Some other documents such as your medical report, criminal record certificate, and proof of funds should be available on request. 

Of course, JAPA is not a decision to be taken lightly. It requires proper planning, hard work, and lots of financial resources. However, for those who can afford it, JAPA can be a life-changing experience, providing a chance for personal growth, career advancement, and a better chance at life.