Japa in 2026: Six easiest countries for Nigerians in Europe
Frankfurt
For Nigerians looking to “japa” to Europe in 2026, the best strategy is to look beyond the popular “Big Three” (UK, USA, Canada) where visa rules have become increasingly strict. Several European nations currently offer more accessible pathways through education, skilled work, and digital nomadism.Here are six European countries that are relatively easier for Nigerians to relocate to:
- Germany
Germany remains a top choice due to its Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), which allows skilled workers to come and search for a job for up to a year without an initial offer.
Why it’s easy: High demand for IT, engineering, and healthcare professionals.
Student Route: Many public universities offer tuition-free education, even for international students, with an 18-month post-study work visa.
- Portugal
Portugal is often cited as the “easiest gateway” to the EU. It offers a variety of residence visas that cater to different income levels.
The D8 Visa: Specifically for digital nomads or remote workers.
The D7 Visa: Ideal for those with passive income (like rental income or pensions).
Why it’s easy: Lower cost of living than Western Europe and a path to citizenship after just five years of legal residency.
- Finland
Known for having the world’s happiest population, Finland is actively recruiting foreigners to fix its aging workforce.
Job Seeker Visa: They offer a 6-month visa specifically to look for work.
Tech Focus: If you are in Tech or Nursing, the “fast-track” process for residence permits can take as little as two weeks.
- Ireland
Ireland is particularly welcoming to Nigerians because it is English-speaking, removing the language barrier found in most of Europe.
Critical Skills Employment Permit: This permit is designed for highly skilled professionals. After two years, you can often apply for a residency stamp that allows you to work without a specific employer.
Why it’s easy: Strong existing Nigerian communities in Dublin and Cork.
- Hungary
Hungary has become a popular “budget” entry point into the Schengen Area.
Study Route: The Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship is very accessible to Nigerians, covering tuition and living costs.
Residency by Investment: Hungary recently reintroduced a guest-investor program that offers a 10-year residency for property investment.
- Estonia
Estonia is the most digitally advanced country in Europe and a haven for tech-savvy Nigerians.
Digital Nomad Visa: Allows you to live in Estonia while working for a company registered elsewhere (including Nigeria or the US).
E-Residency: While not a physical residency, it allows you to start an EU-based company easily, which can later facilitate a business visa.
