The discontinuation of the FastTrack visa processing program for Nigerians may seem like a setback, but Canada remains an attractive destination for education, work, and permanent settlement. Here’s a detailed guide to alternative pathways Nigerians can explore to achieve their immigration goals.
1. Express Entry Program
The Express Entry system is one of Canada’s most popular pathways for skilled workers. It manages three federal programs:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
For individuals with significant work experience in skilled occupations.
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
For those with qualifications in skilled trades.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
For those with prior work experience in Canada.
How It Works:
Applicants create an Express Entry profile and are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which scores factors like age, education, language skills, and work experience.
High-scoring candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence during regular draws.
Tips for Nigerians:
Improve your CRS score by achieving high scores on English proficiency tests like IELTS or TEF.
Consider studying in Canada first to gain additional points for Canadian education and work experience.
Explore Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams aligned with Express Entry to gain a nomination and additional 600 CRS points.
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Canada’s provinces and territories run their own immigration programs to meet local labor market needs. PNPs are an excellent option for applicants who don’t meet the high CRS cutoffs in Express Entry.
Popular PNPs for Nigerians:
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): Targets skilled workers in sectors like IT, healthcare, and finance.
Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP): Prioritizes applicants with ties to Alberta or in-demand skills.
Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP): Offers a pathway for professionals in demand, including healthcare and engineering.
Manitoba PNP: Favors applicants with family ties or work experience in Manitoba.
How to Apply:
Apply directly to a PNP or express interest through your Express Entry profile.
Upon receiving a nomination, use it to apply for permanent residence.
3. Study in Canada and Transition to Permanent Residency
Canada’s education system is a popular gateway to immigration, offering high-quality education and a clear path to permanent residency.
Steps to Take:
Apply for admission to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
Secure a study permit.
Upon graduation, apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to gain Canadian work experience.
Transition to permanent residency through Express Entry (CEC category) or PNPs.
Tips for Nigerian Students:
Choose programs aligned with Canada’s labor market needs, such as healthcare, engineering, IT, or business.
Work part-time during studies to build a Canadian resume.
Research provincial retention programs that encourage international students to settle in the province where they studied.
4. Work in Canada: Temporary Work Permits
Temporary work permits are ideal for Nigerians with job offers from Canadian employers. These permits can pave the way for permanent residency.
Key Work Permit Programs:
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Requires a Labor Market Impact Assessment
