Full List: 5 Countries Where Nigerians Can Secure Permanent Residency
- Nigerians continue to look abroad as countries introduce easier immigration pathways for skilled workers
- Several destinations now provide clear routes to permanent residency, offering stability and long-term prospects
- From Australia to New Zealand, these nations stand out as attractive options for professionals seeking a new life overseas
As more Nigerians explore opportunities abroad, several nations have introduced immigration pathways that make it easier for skilled workers and professionals to obtain permanent residency.
These routes provide long-term stability and, in some cases, open doors to citizenship.
Source: Getty Images
Find the list below:
Australia's permanent residency pathway
Australia offers the Employer-Sponsored Skills in Demand (Subclass 482) visa, which allows foreign workers to gain employment with approved employers.
After two years on this visa, eligible holders can transition to permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS 186). This pathway is considered ideal for skilled professionals seeking long-term stability in Australia.
Australia remains one of the most popular destinations for skilled migrants seeking permanent residency.
Netherlands long-term EU residence
In the Netherlands, individuals who legally reside in the country for five years — including time spent on the Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) or EU Blue Card — qualify for Long-Term EU Residence.
According to The Nation, this status grants greater mobility within the European Union and provides more employment flexibility.
The Netherlands has a long and complex history shaped by its geography and people. Research shows that Ancient Celtic and Germanic tribes lived in the region before it became part of the Roman Empire in the 1st century AD.
The modern Kingdom of the Netherlands was established in 1815, evolving into today’s democratic nation.
Source: Getty Images
Ireland residency options
Ireland provides one of the most attractive residency options in Europe. Migrants who live lawfully in the country for five years on work or study permits can apply for Long-Term Residency (Stamp 4).
Holders of the Critical Skills Employment Permit may qualify even sooner, creating a pathway to permanent residence and eventual citizenship.
Germany's permanent residence for skilled workers
Germany allows EU Blue Card holders to obtain Permanent Residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis) after 33 months. For those who achieve a B1 level in the German language, the timeframe shortens to just 21 months. This makes Germany a top choice for skilled professionals seeking a stable life in Europe.
New Zealand skilled migrant residency
New Zealand offers the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), which provides a clear path to residence after two years in eligible roles.
Skilled workers can also apply directly for permanent residence through the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, making the country an attractive destination for professionals.
Countries Nigerians can visit without visa
Legit.ng earlier reported that Nigerian passport holders now enjoy expanded travel access as 45 countries permit entry without a pre-arranged visa, according to a recent update released by Visaindex.
The change is expected to reduce travel barriers, simplify documentation processes, and open more doors for tourism, trade, and personal travel.
As reported by Nation, out of the 45 destinations, 27 allow full visa-free entry, while others operate visa-on-arrival systems or require an Electronic Travel Authorisation depending on national immigration rules. Although entry conditions still vary by country, the update reflects a gradual improvement in mobility options available to Nigerians.
Source: Legit.ng
