The path to international opportunities for many Nigerians is undergoing a significant transformation as major destination countries are rolling out stricter immigration policies. From the United Kingdom's proposed overhaul of its settlement and work visa rules to Canada's more targeted approach to immigration, the global landscape is shifting. Aspiring migrants now face higher costs and more stringent requirements for US and Australian visas, while the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) pushes ahead with its own digital reforms and grapples with internal challenges.
UK Proposes Tougher Road to Settlement and Work
In a move that could significantly impact many Nigerians, the United Kingdom government unveiled a sweeping immigration white paper in May 2025. The proposals aim to make it more difficult to move to and settle in the UK. A key change is the proposed extension of the qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain from the current five years to ten years.
The popular graduate visa route, which allows international students to work in the UK for a period after their studies, is also set to be shortened. Furthermore, the UK plans to halt the recruitment of overseas social care workers and implement stricter skill and salary thresholds for the skilled worker visa, a route heavily utilized by Nigerian professionals.
Canada Adjusts Immigration Targets and Focus
Canada, another top destination for Nigerians, is also recalibrating its immigration strategy. The country plans to reduce its overall immigration targets for the period of 2025-2027. The Express Entry system for 2025 will focus on specific in-demand sectors such as healthcare, trades, and education, signaling a shift towards a more targeted selection of immigrants.
Prospective students in Canada now face a new rule requiring them to apply for a new study permit if they change their Designated Learning Institution. On a more positive note, the process for obtaining subsequent work permits for participants in the International Experience Canada (IEC) program has been simplified. Additionally, the province of Ontario is in the process of implementing its own labor and immigration reforms.
US and Australia Implement New Visa Procedures and Higher Costs
The United States has introduced new procedural hurdles for Nigerian visa applicants. A recent directive mandates that the barcode number on the DS-160 visa application form must match the one used to schedule the interview. For immigrant visa applicants in Lagos, a new two-visit process has been implemented to streamline document verification.
For those considering Australia, the government has launched new digital tools to fast-track student visa applications. However, this comes with a potential financial sting, as there is a proposal to increase student visa application fees, which could make studying in Australia a more expensive endeavor for Nigerian students.
Nigeria Immigration Service Pushes Digitalization Amidst Challenges
Domestically, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has been actively implementing its new e-Visa and Landing/Exit Card systems to enhance border security and streamline entry and exit processes. The Service has also been recognized for its security partnerships and is collaborating with international bodies to improve migration management.
However, the NIS has also been in the news for a recent scandal involving a convicted inmate who was allegedly taken from prison to a passport office to process travel documents, raising concerns about internal oversight. In a move to regulate the status of foreign nationals within the country, the NIS has also urged those with irregular immigration status to regularize their stay.
