Japa: 10 countries easing relocation for Nigerians in 2026

Nairametrics reports that 10 countries have introduced visa, work permit or travel reforms in the first half of 2026 that could make relocation easier for Nigerians.

JAPA DESTINATIONS 2026

While traditional migration destinations like the US, UK and Australia tighten immigration rules, other countries are moving the opposite way, according to Nairametrics.

The 10 countries making moves:

1. Canada — New permanent residency pathways for international medical doctors, including expanded Express Entry access.
2. Russia — A Skilled Worker Visa launching April 15, offering fast-track residency with no language exam required.
3. Ireland — Expanded employment permits with 32 changes across construction, healthcare, transport and other sectors.
4. Lithuania — A digitalised work permit system targeting shortages across over 100 occupations.
5. Greece — A clearer Digital Nomad Visa pathway, convertible into a two-year residence permit.
6. Spain — A regularisation programme offering legal status and work permits to undocumented migrants already resident there.
7. South Africa — Full rollout of its Electronic Travel Authorisation system for visa-required travellers, including Nigerians.
8. Ghana — Visa-free travel for all Africans, effective since May 25.
9. Togo — Entry visa requirements scrapped for African passport holders, allowing 30-day visa-free stays.
10. Republic of the Congo — Visa-free access for all Africans planned from January 2027.

According to the report, the reforms are being driven by labour shortages, demographic pressures, tourism goals and regional integration efforts across the countries involved. Nigerian doctors stand to benefit most directly from Canada’s new pathway, while skilled workers more broadly could find faster routes into Russia, Ireland and Lithuania. Meanwhile, African-focused visa waivers in Ghana, Togo and Congo point to a wider continental push toward freer movement.

The Nairametrics review noted that these changes contrast with tightening immigration rules in the US, UK, Australia and parts of Europe amid political pressure over migration levels.