A Comprehensive Guide to Relocating Your Family to Canada from Nigeria

Relocating your family to Canada is a dream for many, including those living in Nigeria, where over 400 million people inhabit a country of roughly 9.98 million square kilometers. However, the process is complex and not as simple as the term 'relocation' might imply.

Canada, being a welcoming country, has stringent immigration laws designed to select individuals who can contribute significantly to its economy. If you and your family are considering moving to Canada from Nigeria, understanding the requirements and the best routes is crucial.

Understanding Canada Immigration Laws

Canada does not recognize the term 'relocate' for immigration purposes. Instead, you must 'immigrate.' This means you need to apply for permission to live and work in Canada, and this process can be lengthy and costly. Start by exploring Immigration Canada's website to determine if you qualify for a permanent residence (PR) invitation.

The likelihood of qualifying through the standard routes is quite low. Most applicants do not fulfill the criteria to receive an invitation through traditional immigration programs.

Key Requirements for Immigrating to Canada

Canada prefers highly educated, healthy, and young adults. Here are some steps you can take to improve your chances for immigration:

Get a Master’s Degree from a Respected University: Having a higher education degree is a significant advantage. A Master's degree from a well-regarded institution can bolster your application for immigration.Stay Healthy: Maintain good health. Any health issues, even minor ones, can affect your immigration application.Learn French: Being bilingual in both English and French can increase your eligibility for immigration. The ability to speak both languages is highly valued by Canada.Apply Before Age 30: Starting your educational and professional journey early can enhance your chances of qualifying for certain immigration programs.

Another route is through the Federal Skilled Trades Programme (FSTP), which is accessible to those with at least two years of full-time or four years of part-time work experience in a skilled trade, gained within five years of applying. If you have relevant experience, this could be a viable option.

The Two-Step Process for General Eligibility

If you do not fall into the high-skilled or skilled trades categories, you might consider the two-step process:

Economic Immigration Program: Begin by applying through an economic immigration program such as Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).Family Sponsorship: Once you gain PR, you can sponsor your parents for PR through the Family Sponsorship Program. However, this process can be lengthy and involves a lottery system.

For a more straightforward option, consider an alternative immigration path, such as the Canada Super Visa program.

The Canada Super Visa Option

The Canada Super Visa is a multi-entry visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian PR holders or citizens to visit Canada for up to two years at a time, with a maximum validity of 10 years. This visa provides a way to spend extended periods in Canada without necessitating a full immigration application.

To apply for a Canada Super Visa, ensure you and your family meet the eligibility criteria, such as having sufficient financial means to support a temporary stay and not having any criminal convictions or medical conditions that disqualify you.

Conclusion

Relocating to Canada from Nigeria is not an easy process. Understanding the requirements and legal procedures can help you navigate the journey more smoothly. Whether you choose the route of higher education, skilled trade work experience, or the Canada Super Visa, the key is to plan, prepare, and comply with the stringent requirements.

Good luck on your journey to Canada!