Moving to Canada on a Budget: Is a Student Visa Really the Cheapest Way from Nigeria? (A Cost Comparison)

Find out the cheapest way to move to Canada from Nigeria in 2025. Compare real costs of the student visa, Express Entry, and PNP routes — with full Naira and CAD breakdowns, plus a free Budget Tracker checklist.

🇨🇦 Introduction: The Budget Dream Many Nigerians Share

For many Nigerians — myself included — the dream of moving to Canada often collides with one reality: the cost.

When I first researched “the cheapest way to move to Canada from Nigeria,” I assumed the student visa route was the smartest move. It seemed accessible — apply to a school, get a visa, and later transition to PR.

But when I sat down to calculate the true total cost, I realized the story was different. In this guide, I’ll break down three main pathways (Student Visa, PNP, and Express Entry) in full — using 2025 figures — so you can choose what truly fits your budget and goals.

Option 1: The Student Visa Route — Easy Entry, Hidden Costs

The study route remains the most popular among Nigerians. It’s often marketed as “easier,” but let’s unpack the real numbers.

Cost Category	Average Amount (CAD)	Approx. in Naira (₦)
Tuition (1st year)	17,000 – 25,000	₦20 – ₦29 million
Proof of Funds (living expenses)	20,635 (for one year)	₦24 million
Visa application & biometrics	235	₦275,000
Medical exam & police report	300	₦350,000
Flight & settlement cost	2,000	₦2.3 million
Total (minimum)	≈ CAD 40,000	₦46–₦55 million

Reality Check:
While it offers a clear path to PR, this is not the cheapest route for most Nigerians. The upfront cost is massive, even if you plan to work part-time in Canada.

➡ Best for: Those who can afford a large initial investment and plan to settle via Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP).

Option 2: The Express Entry Path — Mid-Range but Merit-Based

This route rewards qualifications, language skills, and work experience, not just your bank balance.

Here’s a breakdown of real 2025 costs for Nigerians (see my earlier guide: 🇳🇬 Express Entry for Nigerians: Your Step-by-Step Blueprint for Canadian Permanent Residence):

Cost Category	Average Amount (CAD)	Approx. in Naira (₦)
IELTS test	320	₦380,000
ECA (WES/ICES)	240	₦290,000
Profile creation & documents	Free	—
Medical & police report	300	₦350,000
Visa + PR fee	1,525	₦1.8 million
Proof of Funds (single applicant)	14,690	₦17 million
Miscellaneous & courier fees	200	₦230,000
Total (minimum)	≈ CAD 17,000	₦19–₦20 million

Advantages:

No need for admission or tuition fees.
Can immigrate directly as PR.
Faster processing time (6–8 months).

Drawback:
You must meet CRS cutoffs (480–510+). See my guide: 500+ CRS Points: How to Maximize Your Express Entry Score in 2025.

➡ Best for: Educated Nigerians with IELTS 8/7/7/7 and verifiable work experience.

Option 3: Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) — The Hidden Budget Winner

Many Nigerians overlook PNPs, but some provinces actually have low-cost, low-score streams designed for newcomers.

Here’s the cost reality for PNP immigration:

Cost Category	Average Amount (CAD)	Approx. in Naira (₦)
IELTS + ECA	550	₦650,000
PNP application fee	250–500	₦300,000–₦600,000
Work permit (optional)	255	₦300,000
Medical + police report	300	₦350,000
Settlement funds (single)	10,000–13,000	₦12–₦15 million
Visa + PR fee	1,525	₦1.8 million
Total (minimum)	≈ CAD 13,000	₦15–₦18 million

Low-Cost PNP Streams You Should Explore

These are ideal for budget-conscious Nigerians who can’t afford the student route:

Program	Key Advantage	Why It’s Low-Cost
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)	Job offer-driven PR for Atlantic provinces	Lower settlement funds (~CAD 10,000)
Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)	Accepts lower IELTS & CRS	Small-town cost of living
Saskatchewan PNP (SINP)	No job offer needed in-demand list	Low processing fees (~CAD 350)
Manitoba PNP	Favors family ties & skilled trades	Friendly for African applicants

➡ Best for: Skilled Nigerians with moderate savings and flexible relocation plans.

Cost Comparison Summary (2025 Estimates)

Pathway	Total Cost (CAD)	Total in ₦ (approx.)	PR Probability	Notes
Student Visa	40,000–45,000	₦46–₦55M	High (PGWP → PR)	Very expensive upfront
Express Entry	17,000	₦19–₦20M	Moderate–High	Merit-based, needs strong CRS
PNP Streams (AIP/RNIP)	13,000–18,000	₦15–₦18M	Moderate–High	Job offer or nomination required

My Personal Take

When I compared these routes side-by-side, I realized that the student visa path is the most predictable but not the cheapest.

If you’re financially stretched, I recommend focusing on Express Entry or AIP/RNIP, which cut costs nearly in half and still lead to PR.

Truthfully, had I known this earlier, I would’ve started with a PNP application instead of chasing school admissions that cost millions upfront.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

Currency fluctuations (₦ devaluation can affect proof of funds).
Translation fees for certificates.
Bank maintenance letters or stamp duty fees.
Rejected study visas (non-refundable tuition deposits).

Pro tip: Always save at least 10% extra for exchange rate differences and emergency documentation.

Final Verdict: The Smartest Budget Route for Nigerians in 2025

If your goal is to move to Canada cheaply, here’s the realistic ranking:

Provincial Nominee Programs (AIP/RNIP/SINP) — cheapest and practical for most.
Express Entry — moderate cost, faster route if your CRS is strong.
Student Visa — best for career advancement but not a low-cost path.

So, is a student visa really the cheapest way?
No — it’s the most marketed, not the most affordable.