7 Steps to Achieve Permanent Residence in Canada from Nigeria in 2025

Permanent Residence (PR) grants you the right to live, work, and study in Canada indefinitely. For Nigerian professionals, it’s a gateway to economic stability, world-class healthcare, and career growth. The most popular pathway is the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) under Express Entry.

Dreaming of moving to Canada? You’re not alone! Thousands of Nigerian professionals apply for Permanent Residence (PR) every year through Canada’s Express Entry system. But between confusing forms, hidden costs, and endless waiting, the process can feel like a maze.

This guide breaks it down into 7 simple steps—with clear costs, timelines, and tools to save time and money. Let’s get started!

What is Permanent Residence (PR)?

Think of PR as a “VIP pass” to live, work, or study in Canada for as long as you want. It’s not quite citizenship (you’ll keep your Nigerian passport), but it’s the closest thing to it.

Why Canada?

• Better job opportunities (engineers, nurses, and IT pros are in high demand!).

• Free healthcare and quality education for your kids.

• A safe, multicultural society.

The easiest path for Nigerians? The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) under Express Entry.

Step 1: Check if you qualify 

Before spending money or time, confirm you qualify for the FSWP. Canada requires a minimum of 67 out of 100 points based on:

• Age (12 points max)

• Education (25 points max)

• Work Experience (15 points max)

• Language Skills (28 points max)

• Job Offer (10 points, but optional)

• Adaptability (10 points, e.g., family in Canada).

Cost: ₦0 (but mistakes can cost you months).
Time: 5–10 minutes.
Pro Tip: Use our free eligibility checker (for free) to calculate your 67 points instantly—no math required!

Step 2: Pass English/French Tests

You’ll need to take the IELTS or CELPIP (English) or TEF/TCF (French). Most Nigerians choose IELTS.

Cost: ₦266,000–₦277,000 per attempt.
Time: 2–4 weeks (slots in Lagos/Abuja fill up fast!).

Key Resources:

• IELTS Nigeria 

• CELPIP Test Centers 

Let’s Japa Hack: We have free IELTS study material in our resource hub - all reading, writing, listening and speaking resources!

Step 3: Get Your Degree or Masters Evaluated

Canadian employers won’t recognize your Nigerian degree unless it’s verified by either :

1. World Education Services (WES) for general occupations
2. Medical Council of Canada (MCC) for medical professions

3. The Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) for pharmacists 

4. Canadian Architecture Certification Board (CACB) for architects

Cost: Vary between $220–$330 USD (~₦300,000–₦450,000).
Time: 2–8 weeks (Nigerian universities often delay transcripts).
Pain Point: This step trips up 30% of applicants! Start early.

Step 4: Create Your Express Entry Profile

Once you pass the 67-point threshold, create an Express Entry profile. Canada will rank you using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Your CRS score (not the same as the 67 points!) determines if you get invited to apply.

Cost: ₦0.
Time: 5-10 minutes day.
Let’s Japa Tip: Let Amy, our AI immigration expert optimize your CRS score to heighten your probability for an invite.

Step 5: Wait for Your Invitation (ITA)

If your CRS score is high enough, Canada will send an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Wait Time: 2 weeks–8 months.

Let’s Japa Hack: Our smart notifications ping you the second new invites go out.

Step 6: Apply for PR

Now, submit your full application to IRCC (Canada’s immigration office).

Cost: ~₦1.5 million (for one person).
Includes:

• Processing fees

• Medical exams

• Proof of funds (external link) (show you have ₦16M+ for a family of 4).

Time: Submit within 60 days of getting your ITA.

Step 7: Pack Your Bags!

If approved, you’ll get a COPR (Confirmation of Permanent Residence). You have 1 year to move to Canada.

Processing Time: 6–8 months (check IRCC’s website).

Let’s Japa Tip: Use our Immigration Budget Tracker to plan flights, housing, and settling-in costs. While our Global hub is a useful marketplace to get exclusive offers on tickets through Wakanow, Accommodation through our housing partners and more.

Ready to start? Check your 67-point eligibility for free → Try Now