Europe remains one of the most attractive destinations for Nigerians seeking better job opportunities, quality education, work-life balance, and long-term residency. With dozens of European countries offering multiple visa options, Nigerians often ask the same question: What is the easiest European country to migrate to from Nigeria?
Although “easy” depends on eligibility, documentation, financial strength, and your personal profile, certain European countries provide simpler visa processes, lower requirements, and faster approval timelines compared to others.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know. You will discover…
Factors That Determine “Easy Migration”
What makes a European country easier to migrate to?
a. Flexible visa policies
Countries with multiple pathways—work, study, family reunion—are easier to access.
b. Labour shortages
Countries experiencing skill shortages are more open to foreign workers.
c. Low financial requirements
Affordable proof of funds and application fees make migration easier for Nigerians.
d. Fast processing time
Some countries take weeks, not months, to issue visas.
e. Clear pathways to residency
EU countries offering stable long-term permits are more attractive.
f. Transparent policies
This reduces refusal rates caused by unclear rules.
Now let’s answer the big question.
Easiest European Country to Migrate to From Nigeria
Based on visa flexibility, job opportunities, processing speed, and accessibility for Nigerians, the top easiest European countries to migrate to are:
1. Portugal – Easiest overall
2. Poland – Best for skilled jobs and work visas
3. Germany – Best for skilled workers and vocational training
4. Malta – Easy work permits and English-speaking environment
5. Finland – Fast processing and high job demand
6. Hungary – Affordable cost of living and simple work permits
7. Lithuania – One of Europe’s easiest work visa routes
Each country has its own strengths depending on your goals—work, study, business, or residency.
Why These Countries Are Easier for Nigerians
These nations stand out because they offer:
- Minimal work experience requirements
- Low cost of study
- Fast visa processing
- Low rejection rates
- High demand for foreign labour
- Simple documentation
- Clear pathways to residency
Let’s break them down one by one.
Country-by-Country Breakdown
1. Portugal – Easiest European Country Overall
Portugal remains one of the most accessible European countries for Nigerians due to its:
- Multiple visa options
- Simple documentation
- Low cost of living
- Friendly immigration policies
- High acceptance rates
Visa Options for Nigerians
- Work Visa
- D7 Passive Income Visa (for remote workers or earners)
- Student Visa
- Startup / Tech Visa
- Family Reunification Visa
- Digital Nomad Visa
Why Portugal is Easy
- No age limit
- Low bank balance requirements
- Fast processing
- Many English-taught programs
- Pathway to Permanent Residency after 5 years
2. Poland – Best Work Visa Opportunity
Poland needs foreign workers in:
- Manufacturing
- Logistics
- IT
- Healthcare
- Food processing
- Construction
This makes work visas easier for Nigerians.
Why Poland is Easy
- Employers can sponsor work permits
- Fast job market
- Low visa fee
- Straightforward embassy requirements
Common Visas
- Work Permit (Type A)
- National Visa (D-type)
- Study Visa
3. Germany – Best for Skilled Workers & Students
Germany remains one of the easiest European countries if you seek:
- Skilled work
- Vocational training
- Affordable education
- Blue Card residency
Popular Options
- Study Visa
- Ausbildung (Vocational Training Visa)
- Job Seeker Visa
- Work Visa
Why Germany is Easy
- No tuition at public universities
- Shortage of skilled labour
- High demand for nurses, engineers, IT professionals
- Pathway to Permanent Residence and citizenship
4. Malta – English-Speaking and Friendly to Nigerians
Malta offers one of the simplest work permit systems for Africans.
Why Malta is Easy
- English-speaking country
- Simple visa process
- High demand for workers
- Small population = more job openings
- Fast approval for work permits
Industries Hiring Nigerians
- Hospitality
- Caregiving
- Construction
- IT
- Customer service
5. Finland – Fast Processing and Worker-Friendly
Finland is becoming a top choice for Nigerians because of:
Benefits
- Easy work permit
- High salary
- Fast processing (1–2 months)
- Family-friendly policies
In-demand jobs
- Nurses
- ICT professionals
- Welders
- Carpenters
- Cleaners
- Care assistants
6. Hungary – Affordable and Accessible
Hungary’s main advantages include:
- Low cost of living
- Simple work visa requirements
- Availability of English-taught courses
- Fast study visa approvals
This makes it ideal for students and entry-level workers.
7. Lithuania – One of the Easiest Work Visas
Lithuania is frequently rated as one of Europe’s easiest migration destinations.
Why Lithuania is Easy
- Low documentation requirements
- Employers actively recruit Nigerians
- Fast labour permit system
- High job demand in logistics, manufacturing, and services
Cheapest European Countries to Relocate to
If affordability matters, these are the most budget-friendly:
1. Portugal
2. Poland
3. Hungary
4. Lithuania
5. Romania
These countries have low accommodation, food, transportation, and visa fees.
Common Visa Routes Nigerians Use to Enter Europe
Most Nigerians migrate to Europe through these visa categories:
a. Work Visa
The easiest route for long-term migration.
Countries like Poland, Portugal, Malta, and Lithuania have a high demand for foreign workers.
b. Student Visa
Many Nigerians relocate via:
- Germany
- Finland
- Hungary
- Portugal
Student visas offer a pathway to residency after graduation.
c. Job Seeker Visa
Countries such as Germany and Sweden allow you to enter Europe to search for work.
d. Family Reunification
For Nigerians with legally residing family members in Europe.
e. Business or Startup Visa
Portugal and Lithuania offer accessible entrepreneurship visas.
Documents Needed for European Migration
The specific requirements depend on the country and visa type, but Nigerians usually need:
- International passport
- Visa application form
- Passport photographs
- Bank statements (3–6 months)
- Proof of accommodation
- Work contract or admission letter
- Travel insurance
- Police clearance
- Proof of funds
- Educational certificates
- Sponsorship letter (if applicable)
Ensure all documents are consistent, complete, and verifiable.
Mistakes Nigerians Should Avoid When Applying for European Visas
❌ Submitting fake documents
❌ Inconsistent financial statements
❌ Not researching the visa category
❌ Using unlicensed agents
❌ Showing desperation during interviews
❌ Not proving ties to Nigeria
European embassies are very strict; even small errors can lead to refusal.
How to Improve Your Visa Success Rate
Follow these tips:
✔ Use only verified immigration consultants
Avoid fake agents who promise guaranteed visas.
✔ Prepare strong financial proof
Show stable income and transparent bank history.
✔ Choose the right visa category
Work, study, or family reunion—pick the one that matches your profile.
✔ Research your destination country
Know job opportunities, cost of living, and policies.
✔ Stay truthful and confident
Embassies value honesty over perfection.
Conclusion
Choosing the easiest European country to migrate to from Nigeria depends on your skills, financial strength, and goals. However, countries like Portugal, Poland, Germany, Malta, Finland, Hungary, and Lithuania stand out because of their friendly migration policies, work opportunities, low visa rejection rates, and clear pathways to permanent residency.
With the right preparation, documentation, and guidance, your dream of relocating to Europe can become a reality.