In the last few years, countries, particularly developed nations, have introduced various policies aimed at tightening immigration rules.
Research conducted by Nairametrics showed that these changes have made it increasingly difficult for Nigerians to migrate abroad.
Nigeria has become synonymous with the ‘Japa’ syndrome — the growing desire among citizens of Africa’s most populous nation to leave for Europe, North America, or other destinations in search of better opportunities, improved quality of life, or simply an escape from economic hardship.
However, this seemingly attractive ‘escape route’ from the country’s challenges has been hampered by stricter immigration measures, including higher proof-of-funds requirements, restrictions on multiple-entry visas, increases in student and post-study visa fees, the removal of dependent visa pathways, and tougher settlement conditions.
Here are some of the countries that have recently changed their immigration policies in ways that could make it harder for Nigerians to relocate.
Saudi Arabia, where millions of Nigerian Muslims travel yearly for pilgrimage, implemented a new visa policy in February 2025, restricting visitors from Nigeria and 13 other countries to single-entry visas.
- Under the new arrangement, Nigerians no longer have access to one-year multiple-entry visas for tourism, business, and family visits.
This means Nigerian travellers must now submit fresh visa applications for every trip, increasing costs and administrative processes, particularly for those travelling frequently for Umrah or Hajj.
