Applying for Canadian PR Without a Lawyer from Nigeria in 8 Steps

Canada offers one of the most accessible immigration pathways for skilled workers, and the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) under the Express Entry system is one of the best options for Nigerians looking to move without hiring a lawyer.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process to apply for Canadian permanent residence (PR) on your own, estimated costs, and tips to improve your chances!

Understanding Express Entry and the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is an online system that we use to manage immigration applications from skilled workers that manages applications for three major economic programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Eligible candidates are placed in a pool and ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The highest-scoring candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.

What is the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)?

The FSWP is for skilled workers with foreign work experience who meet Canada’s eligibility criteria in education, work experience, language ability, and adaptability. You don’t need a job offer to apply, making it a great option for independent applicants.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

To qualify for FSWP, you must score at least 67 points out of 100 based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills.

Pro-tip: Use our Free Eligibility Assessment to check your score instantly and get a recommendation on your best pathway!

💰 Cost: FREE

Step 2: Take Your Language Test (IELTS or CELPIP)

You must prove your English or French proficiency with an approved test:

• IELTS General Training
• CELPIP General
• TEF Canada (for French speakers)

Aim for at least CLB 7 (equivalent to IELTS 6.0 in each section) to qualify.

Pro tip: Get free IELTS study material in our resource hub. Also use the Language test buddy bot to test yourself and get graded for free.

💰 Estimated cost: CAD 300 / NGN 370,000

Step 3: Get Your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)

Since you studied outside Canada, you need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to verify your degree’s equivalency in Canada. Approved organizations include:

• World Education Services (WES)
• International Credential Assessment Service (ICAS)
• International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS)

💰 Estimated cost: CAD 240 / NGN 295,000

Step 4: Create an Express Entry Profile

Once you have your language test results and ECA, you can create your Express Entry profile online. This profile will rank you in the CRS pool based on your age, education, work experience, and other factors.

💰 Cost: FREE

Step 5: Improve Your CRS Score (Optional)

The higher your CRS score, the better your chances of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR. Here’s how you can boost your score:

• Retake IELTS/CELPIP for a higher score
• Add a French language test (TEF Canada)
• Get a job offer in Canada
• Apply for a Provincial Nomination Program (PNP) for 600 extra points

💰 Estimated cost (if retaking IELTS): CAD 300 / NGN 370,000

Step 6: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

If your CRS score is high enough, you’ll receive an ITA in the next Express Entry draw. You have 60 days to submit your PR application with supporting documents, including:

• Police clearance certificates
• Proof of funds
• Work experience documents
• Medical examination results

💰 Estimated cost:

• Police Clearance: CAD 30–50 / NGN 37,000–62,000
• Medical Exam: CAD 250 / NGN 310,000

Step 7: Submit Biometrics & Pay PR Fees

After submitting your PR application, you’ll need to provide biometrics (fingerprints & photo) and pay government processing fees.

💰 Estimated cost:

• Biometrics: CAD 85 / NGN 105,000
• Processing Fee: CAD 1,365 / NGN 1.7M

Step 8: Get Your Passport Request (PPR) & Move to Canada!

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a passport request (PPR) to get your visa stamped. From there, it’s time to book your flight and start your new life in Canada!

💰 Estimated cost:

• Flight Ticket: CAD 1,000 / NGN 1.23M
• Proof of Funds: CAD 13,757 / NGN 17M (for a single applicant, varies by family size)

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Path for You?

Applying for Canadian permanent residence under the Federal Skilled Worker Program without a lawyer is absolutely possible if you follow these steps carefully. The key is to be organized, proactive, and well-prepared.

🚀 Get Started Now: Check your eligibility with our Free Assessment and begin your Canadian immigration journey today!

Have questions? Drop a comment below!