Looking for the cheapest countries to migrate to from Nigeria in 2025? This detailed guide breaks down low-cost options in Africa, Europe and Asia, with real visa routes, cost of living tips and useful official links.
Before You “Japa”: What Does Cheap Really Mean?
When Nigerians say, “Abeg, which country cheap to japa to?” we’re not just talking about flight price.
For this guide, I’m using “cheap” to mean:
- Relatively low cost of living (rent, food, transport compared to UK/US/Canada).
- Reasonable visa or residence options – especially via study, work, or business, not just tourism.
- Manageable initial costs – proof of funds, tuition (or scholarships), visa fees, plus ticket.
- A realistic path to stay longer if you follow the rules (study → work, work → permanent residence, etc.).
I’ll walk through countries where, if you plan well, your total relocation cost + first year expenses is far lower than popular places like the UK, US or Canada.
I’ll also talk like I would with a friend: “If I had limited funds and I’m in Lagos/Abuja/PH right now, is this move worth it?”
1. Neighbouring ECOWAS Countries: Ghana, Benin Republic & Togo
If your budget is very tight and you just need a soft landing outside Nigeria, nearby West African countries are the easiest place to start.
Why they’re cheap
- Visa advantage: As ECOWAS citizens, Nigerians can enter and stay for short periods visa-free in fellow ECOWAS states like Ghana, Benin Republic and Togo. (VisaIndex.com)
- Low flight/transport cost: You can go by road (Lagos → Cotonou or Lomé), or take relatively cheap regional flights to Accra or other cities.
- Similar lifestyle: Food, weather, and culture are familiar. You won’t spend crazy amounts trying to “adapt.”
Typical monthly costs (very rough, outside city centre)
- Shared room or small studio: roughly $150–$300 equivalent.
- Feeding (cooking + occasional eating out): $120–$200.
- Intra-city transport (trotro, okada, bus, Bolt): $40–$70.
These can be lower or higher depending on your lifestyle and city (e.g., parts of Accra are expensive, but smaller towns are cheaper).
Who this route suits
- Freelancers / remote workers who only need stable internet + safe environment.
- People testing “living abroad” before attempting Europe/Asia.
- Traders and small business owners who can plug into regional trade or import/export.
Key links
- Visa-free countries list for Nigerian passport:
https://visaindex.com/visa-requirement/nigeria-passport-visa-free-countries-list (VisaIndex.com)
2. Kenya & Rwanda – Affordable East Africa With Growing Economies
East Africa is becoming a favourite for Nigerians who want better infrastructure without Western costs.
A 2025 travel cost comparison for Nigerians shows Kenya and Rwanda among the most affordable destinations from Nigeria, with relatively cheap flights and low daily expenses. (DandPTravels – Travel Agency in Nigeria)
Why Kenya & Rwanda are attractive
- Lower cost of living than many Western countries, especially outside premium neighbourhoods.
- Decent job markets in tech, tourism, development NGOs, logistics and services.
- Better security and cleanliness in cities like Kigali and some parts of Nairobi compared to what many Nigerians are used to.
Example monthly budget (simple lifestyle)
- Modest room/apartment in a non-luxury area: $200–$400.
- Feeding (mostly cooking): $120–$220.
- Transport (matatu/bus/boda + occasional Uber/Bolt): $40–$80.
Visa/residence angle
- Rwanda and Kenya regularly offer e-visa or visa-on-arrival options to many African nationals (check latest rules before travel – they change).
- For longer stays you’ll need work permits, student visas, or business registration.
Who this suits
- Young professionals in tech, media, tourism, NGO work.
- Content creators and remote workers who want good internet + safer city feel.
- People who want to scale into pan-African opportunities (e.g. Nairobi tech/startup scene).
3. Malaysia – Asian Option With Low Living Costs
Several Nigerian-focused blogs list Malaysia as one of the cheapest countries Nigerians can relocate to, thanks to relatively low rent, food and transport costs compared to Europe. (Pulse Nigeria)
Why Malaysia stands out
- Cost of living: Legal and immigration sites estimate that a couple can live decently starting around £1,200 per month in major cities – often less if you live modestly. (Immigration Advice Service)
- Modern infrastructure: Good roads, public transport, malls, and healthcare.
- Education & work: Options for student visas and certain work categories.
Main routes Nigerians use
- Study route – apply to universities/colleges in Malaysia and get a student visa.
- Work route – requires a job offer and employer sponsorship.
- Business route – setting up a company (requires capital and compliance).
Important links
- Official Malaysia eVisa portal:
https://malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my (malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my) - Malaysia High Commission (Abuja):
https://www.kln.gov.my/web/nga_abuja (Kementerian Luar Negeri)
Who Malaysia is good for
- Those who want an Asian experience with lower costs than Singapore, Japan or South Korea.
- Students looking for cheaper tuition + modest living costs.
- People comfortable with multi-cultural, Muslim-majority environment and hot climate.
4. Portugal – Affordable Europe With Clear Pathways
When people talk about cheap but beautiful European countries, Portugal almost always appears. 2025 immigration and expat guides describe Portugal as one of Europe’s most affordable countries for foreigners, with relatively low living costs and multiple visa routes (work, student, digital nomad, etc.). (KTravels)
Why Portugal is on many Nigerians’ list
- Lower cost of living than the UK, Ireland, or the Nordics – especially outside Lisbon/Porto.
- Friendly climate: Think “Europe with Lagos sunshine.”
- Possibility of permanent residence and citizenship after about 5 years of legal stay, depending on your route. (KTravels)
Common routes from Nigeria
- Study route – apply to a Portuguese university/polytechnic and use student visa → later, job → residence permit.
- Work route – get a job offer and apply for a residence/work visa.
- Digital nomad / remote worker visas (rules evolving, check latest updates).
Official info links
- EU Immigration Portal – Working in Portugal (non-EU citizens):
https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/migration-and-asylum/eu-immigration-portal/employed-worker-portugal_en (Migration and Home Affairs) - General Portuguese visa information:
https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/en/ (Vistos)
Rough cost idea (outside city centre)
- Shared room/small flat in cheaper cities: €350–€600/month.
- Feeding (cooking plus cheap restaurants): €150–€250/month.
- Transport (monthly pass in many cities): around €30–€50.
If I personally wanted Europe on a smaller budget, Portugal would be in my top 3 – especially if I could get a remote job in dollars/euros and spend in Portuguese prices.
5. Germany – “Cheap” If You Use the Study Route or Scholarships
You might be surprised to see Germany here because the blocked account scares people. But for education-minded Nigerians, Germany can actually be one of the cheapest long-term options, especially if you secure funding.
Why Germany can be affordable
- Many public universities charge little to no tuition fees for international students; you mostly pay semester contributions and admin fees. (Join The Student Life)
- You’re allowed to work part-time while studying, and after graduation, you can apply for a permit to look for work and stay longer. (Migration and Home Affairs)
The catch: blocked account
To get a student visa, you usually must show enough funds in a blocked account to cover one year of living costs (the amount changes periodically). This is the part that makes Germany feel “expensive upfront,” but if:
- You access scholarships, DAAD funding or family support, or
- You’re okay with saving for 1–2 years,
then your actual cost of education is extremely low compared to the UK or Canada.
Official links for Germany
- German Missions in Nigeria (Embassy + Consulate Lagos):
https://nigeria.diplo.de/ng-en (Auswärtiges Amt) - Student visa info for Nigeria (German Consulate Lagos):
https://nigeria.diplo.de/ng-en/2691114-2691114 (German Missions in Nigeria)
Who Germany suits
- Nigerians who seriously value quality education in engineering, IT, health, business, etc.
- People willing to learn basic German to unlock more job opportunities.
- Those who can handle the cold weather and structured lifestyle.
6. Finland – “Almost Free” If You Win Scholarships
Several Nigerian-focused relocation guides now mention Finland as one of the cheapest countries to move to from Nigeria if you’re a student and can secure fully funded scholarships or low-tuition programmes. (Leaving Nigeria)
Why Finland is on the radar
- Many universities offer scholarships that cover tuition and sometimes part of living costs for international students. (Study in Finland)
- After you graduate, you can get a residence permit to look for work or start a business, and your study years can count towards permanent residence. (Maahanmuuttovirasto)
Official info
- Finnish Immigration Service – Studying in Finland:
https://migri.fi/en/studying-in-finland (Maahanmuuttovirasto) - Residence permit for studies & residence permits from Nigeria (Finland abroad):
https://finlandabroad.fi/web/nga/residence-permits-to-finland (Suomi ulkomailla) - Enter Finland e-service (online applications):
https://enterfinland.fi (enterfinland.fi)
Who Finland suits
- Students ready to do serious research for scholarships and craft strong applications.
- People who don’t mind cold weather and a quieter lifestyle.
- Tech-focused Nigerians (Finland has strong startup and ICT scenes).
7. Slovakia, Latvia & Hungary – Low-Cost “Under-the-Radar” Europe
Recent Nigerian news and relocation blogs mention Slovakia, Latvia and Hungary as countries where Nigerians can relocate “without spending much,” especially through study or work routes. (The Nation Newspaper)
Why these countries matter
- Lower tuition and living costs than big destinations like Germany or France.
- Less competition compared to over-saturated hubs like the UK or Canada.
- Schengen access: Once you have a residence card, you can move within the Schengen area for short visits.
Typical student budgets in smaller European cities can start from around:
- Rent (shared): €200–€400/month
- Feeding: €120–€200/month
- Transport: €20–€40/month
If you get low or subsidised tuition plus the ability to work part-time, the overall cost can be very competitive.
Personally, if I wanted “quiet Europe + low cost + good chance to stand out,” I’d seriously research scholarships or degree programmes in these lesser-known countries.
8. Vietnam & Thailand – Very Low Living Costs
Multiple relocation and travel resources list countries like Vietnam and Thailand among the cheapest places to live in 2025, with low rent and food costs. (Immigration Advice Service)
Nigerian relocation blogs also mention Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, South Korea and Sri Lanka as budget-friendly options for work or study, especially for teaching English or tech-related roles (although requirements differ by nationality and qualifications). (Leaving Nigeria)
Why people choose this route
- Very low cost of living in many cities for rent, food, and local transport.
- Opportunities in teaching, IT, tourism, digital nomad work (content, design, coding, etc.).
- Vibrant lifestyle: beaches, nightlife, and strong expat communities.
Caution
- Visa rules change often and can be strict, so always check official immigration websites or embassies.
- Income can be unstable if you rely only on casual jobs; remote work or solid job offers are safer.
9. Bolivia & Colombia – Budget-Friendly Latin America
Latin America is rarely on the average Nigerian’s radar, but some Nigerian-focused blogs now highlight Bolivia and Colombia as budget options for relocation. (OhentPay Blog)
Why they’re considered cheap
- Rent and food in many cities are far cheaper than Western Europe or North America.
- There are routes to work visas, especially in sectors like teaching English, healthcare, construction and IT. (OhentPay Blog)
What to keep in mind
- You’ll likely need to learn Spanish for long-term integration and better jobs.
- You must research security conditions in specific cities and neighbourhoods.
- Visa processes may require more legwork and sometimes in-country applications.
How to Choose the Best Cheap Country For You (Not Just TikTok Hype)
Even if a country is “cheap,” it might be expensive for the wrong person.
Here’s a simple framework I’d use if I were planning my own low-budget move from Nigeria:
1. Start with your main goal
- Study: Look at Germany, Finland, Portugal, other cheap-tuition European countries.
- Work: Consider Kenya, Rwanda, Malaysia, Portugal, Slovakia/Hungary/Latvia, Vietnam, etc.
- Remote work/digital nomad: ECOWAS neighbours, Portugal, Malaysia, East Africa, Thailand.
2. Be honest about your funding level
- Very low savings (< ₦1–2m):
Start within Africa/ECOWAS, build your income and experience, then think of Europe/Asia later. - Medium savings:
Consider Malaysia, Portugal, some Eastern European countries, Kenya/Rwanda. - Strong funding or scholarship:
Dream bigger – Germany, Finland and other European study routes can become very affordable.
3. Check these 5 critical factors
- Visa route – Is there a clear legal pathway for your profile (student, skilled worker, entrepreneur)?
- Language – Are you ready to learn German, Finnish, Portuguese, Slovak, Spanish, etc.?
- Job prospects – Does your field (IT, healthcare, engineering, media, hospitality) have demand there?
- Family plans – Is it easy to bring your spouse/children later? Some proposed rules in Europe tried to restrict this, but they’re evolving. (Premium Citizen)
- Community & safety – Are there Nigerians or Africans there already? How safe is the city?
Quick Reality Check: “Cheap” ≠ “Easy”
A few important truths I’d tell any friend:
- Cheaper countries still require serious paperwork.
You’ll deal with embassy appointments, documentation, and sometimes long waiting times. - Cost of living can jump due to exchange rate changes or inflation – especially when converting from naira.
- Scholarships and job offers are competitive, so your CV, statement of purpose, and online presence must be strong.
- You must always obey immigration rules – overstaying or working illegally can destroy your long-term chances.
Practical Next Steps (If You’re Serious About 2025)
If I were mapping my own “cheapest countries to migrate to from Nigeria 2025” plan, I’d do this:
- Pick 2–3 target countries from this list (e.g., Germany + Portugal + Rwanda).
- For each one, open official pages:
- Germany: nigeria.diplo.de (Auswärtiges Amt)
- Finland: migri.fi – Studying in Finland (Maahanmuuttovirasto)
- Portugal: EU Immigration Portal – Portugal (Migration and Home Affairs)
- Malaysia: malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my (malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my)
- Calculate a realistic budget:
- Visa fees + proof of funds requirement + ticket + first 3–6 months rent and living costs.
- Improve your profile for 3–6 months:
- Take online courses (Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning).
- Build a strong CV and LinkedIn.
- If going via study, sharpen your SOP and scholarship applications.
- Join country-specific communities:
- Look for Facebook/Telegram/WhatsApp groups of “Nigerians in Portugal/Germany/Finland/Rwanda” (always double-check information shared there with official sources).
FAQs
1. Which country is the absolute cheapest for Nigerians to move to?
There’s no single answer, but for 2025, Nigerian relocation blogs frequently mention Finland (with scholarships), Germany (public universities), Malaysia, Kenya, Rwanda, Slovakia, Latvia and Portugal as some of the most budget-friendly options when you combine tuition, living costs and visa opportunities. (Leaving Nigeria)
2. What is the cheapest country for Nigerian students?
For students, Germany and Finland stand out because of low or free tuition and scholarship options, even though proof of funds may be high. Some Eastern European countries (Poland, Slovenia, Greece, Slovakia, Latvia, Hungary) also offer very affordable tuition and living costs. (Join The Student Life)
3. Can I relocate cheaply without IELTS?
Yes, some countries either:
- Don’t require IELTS if your previous education was in English, or
- Accept other tests, or
- Offer programmes in local languages.
Germany, some Finnish programmes, many Eastern European universities and some Malaysian institutions may waive IELTS if you prove English-medium education, but you must confirm with each school. (Join The Student Life)
4. Is Canada still a good option for low-budget Nigerians?
Canada has great opportunities, but it is not cheap for most Nigerians when you include:
- High proof of funds
- Tuition fees
- Expensive cost of living in major cities
For strict “cheapest” criteria, many people now first look at Germany, Finland, Portugal, Malaysia, and lower-cost European/Asian/African countries, then consider Canada later when their earnings increase.
5. Can I move with my family on a low budget?
It’s possible but harder. Most countries allow spouse and children to join you if you:
- Hold a valid study or work residence permit, and
- Can show extra proof of funds for each dependent.
To keep costs low, many Nigerians move alone first, stabilize income, then bring family through legal family reunification routes once they’re settled.