With the wave of japa rising again, and Europe ever ready to open its borders to Nigerians searching for the best European countries to move to. Not only is moving to Europe from Nigeria a life-changing decision, but it opens you up to better career opportunities, education, healthcare, and overall quality of life.
Top 9 Best European Countries For Nigerians To Migrate To (2025 List)
Whether you're a skilled professional, a student, or just want a fresh start, here are some of the best places in Europe you could move to from Nigeria in 2025.
1. Germany – The Economic Powerhouse
Germany is a top choice when it comes to skilled migration from Nigeria to Europe, and for good reasons. Firstly, Germany is the largest economy in Europe and has many opportunities in fields like engineering, IT, healthcare, and skilled trades. So if you’re skilled, then you’re making the right choice moving to Germany from Nigeria.
Why Germany?
-
1. Their economy is strong, and there’s a high demand for skilled workers
-
2. You can access tuition-free education in many public universities.
-
3. There’s a clear path to permanent residence and citizenship.
-
4. If you love adventure, multicultural cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, and Hamburg you can live in or visit.
-
5. As a skilled worker seeking a job, you can move to Germany and search for work for up to six months.
2. Ireland – Friendly and Growing Fast
Ireland is becoming increasingly popular due to its friendly visa policies. So if you don’t want the language to be a hassle but want to be in a forward-thinking country with a booming tech sector, Ireland is your choice.
Why Ireland?
-
1. There’s no language barrier for English speakers.
-
2. If you’re skilled in IT, finance, and healthcare, you'll always find work opportunities.
-
3. After you study as an international student, you can stay back for 2 years after graduation to find work.
-
4. If you love to ease into the culture faster, there’s a growing Nigerian community in cities like Dublin and Cork.
-
5. Ireland offers work permits for highly skilled occupations with a fast-track to permanent residency.
3. Netherlands – Balanced Work-Life and Innovation
The Netherlands is another top choice when it comes to skilled migration from Nigeria to Europe. Netherlands is known for its innovation, quality of life, and forward-thinking policies. As a skilled worker in fields like tech, agriculture, and business, you will find the country attractive.
Why the Netherlands?
-
1. Many jobs don’t require Dutch, as you can be an English speaker.
-
2. It’s a great place for entrepreneurs and business owners.
-
3. It’s one of the safest countries in Europe with efficient transport.
-
4. There are top-ranking universities with courses in English.
-
5. If you’ve a highly skilled migrant visa or student visa, there are post-study work options.
4. Portugal – Affordable and Welcoming
Portugal is one of the top choices when it comes to skilled migration from Nigeria to Europe. Portugal stands out for its relaxed lifestyle, affordability, and beautiful climate. If you’re a retiree, remote worker, and with a family looking for a peaceful life, Portugal is an ideal choice.
Why Portugal?
-
1. Portugal is the most affordable place to live in Western Europe.
-
2. Their Golden Visa Program offers you residency if you’re an investor or a real estate buyer.
-
3. Portuguese people are known for being warm and helpful.
-
4. There would be no issue for you if you speak English, especially in Lisbon and Porto.
-
5. Consider the D7 visa if you have passive income or remote work, or the startup visa for entrepreneurs.
5. France – Culture and Career Opportunities
France offers both a rich cultural experience and strong job prospects, especially for professionals in engineering, science, and academia.
Why France?
-
1. Access world-class institutions and scholarships that are readily available for international students.
-
2. There are work opportunities in sectors like fashion, tech, healthcare, and construction.
-
3. You’ll get to have access to excellent healthcare, transportation, and culinary culture.
-
4. A growing Nigerian community, especially in Paris and Marseille, when you’re homesick.
-
5. The French “Talent Passport” allows you to live and work in France as a skilled professional and entrepreneur.
6. Sweden – Progressive and High Quality of Life
Sweden consistently ranks among the best countries in terms of human development, gender equality, and public services.
Why Sweden?
-
1. There are great benefits, including parental leave and child care.
-
2. You’ll get a great work-life balance to take time to rest and for your health.
-
3. Job Market: Opportunities in tech, healthcare, and green energy.
-
4. English is widely spoken, especially in Stockholm and Gothenburg.
-
5. Sweden’s job seeker visa or residence permit for work makes it accessible for skilled Nigerians.
7. Belgium – At the Heart of Europe
Belgium offers a high standard of living, a multilingual culture, and proximity to major European cities. It's ideal if you have a career path or for families who love to live a quiet life.
Why Belgium?
-
1. Dutch, French, and German are official languages, but English is widely spoken in business.
-
2. There are job opportunities, particularly in Brussels, for international organisations.
-
3. The education system is strong, especially within the public and international schools.
-
4. They have one of the best healthcare systems in Europe.
-
5. Belgium has work permits that align with EU Blue Card eligibility for skilled workers.
8. Finland – Quiet, Safe, and Smart
Finland is an underrated gem if you want a clean, quiet, and intellectually stimulating environment.
Why Finland?
-
1. It even offers free education for EU students and low fees for non-EU students.
-
2. Finland has a tech-friendly environment, especially for software developers and researchers.
-
3. It is one of the safest countries in the world.
-
4. Perfect for raising a family or finding peace of mind.
-
5. Finland offers a residence permit for work, startup entrepreneurs, and students with post-study rights.
9. Hungary – Affordable European Route
For Nigerians seeking a lower cost of living and easier entry into the EU, Hungary is a great option. Budapest, its capital, is full of cultural charm and opportunities.
Why Hungary?
-
1. It has the lowest cost of living in Western Europe, from rent, food, and transport.
-
2. There are great programs in medicine, engineering, and business in English for students.
-
3. You can easily travel across Europe from Hungary.
-
4. Opportunities in tourism, education, and healthcare exist for immigrants.
-
5. Hungary offers student visas and work permits for non-EU nationals, and it’s relatively easier to apply for permanent residence compared to other EU countries.
When deciding where to move in Europe from Nigeria, your reason for migration matters. Whether it’s for education, a better job, a good place to raise a family, or just a fresh adventure. Whatever your reason may be, there are options that'll work for you.
All you have to do is learn about the country’s visa and immigration policies, connect with Nigerian diaspora communities, check if your profession is in demand (especially for skilled migration), plan your finances for the first few months post-arrival, or use CadRemit to receive Euro to get on your feet how you like to.
FAQs: Best European Countries For Nigerians To Migrate To
1. What is the easiest country in Europe to migrate to from Nigeria?
Portugal is considered one of the easiest European countries for Nigerians to migrate to due to its affordable cost of living, friendly visa options like the D7 visa and Golden Visa, and relaxed immigration policies.
2. How can a Nigerian move to Europe legally?
To move to Europe from Nigeria legally, you can apply for a student visa, skilled worker visa, job seeker visa, or investment-based residence permit, depending on the country. Countries like Germany, Ireland, and the Netherlands offer accessible pathways for skilled migration.
3. Which European countries offer jobs for Nigerians?
Countries such as Germany, Ireland, Sweden, and the Netherlands have high demand for skilled workers in IT, healthcare, engineering, and finance, making them top destinations for Nigerians looking for job opportunities in Europe.
4. What are the best European countries for Nigerian students?
Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Hungary are popular among Nigerian students due to their affordable tuition (or tuition-free options), high-quality education, and English-taught programs.
5. Can I get permanent residence in Europe as a Nigerian migrant?
Yes, several European countries like Germany, Ireland, and Sweden offer a clear path to permanent residency and citizenship after a few years of legal stay, especially for skilled workers and international graduates.
Clinton Nwachukwu
CadRemit Editorial
Embrace a smarter way to send money with CadRemit
Simplify cross-border payments between Canada and Nigeria for everyday transactions.
