Canada remains one of the most popular destinations for Nigerians looking to relocate legally, build wealth, and enjoy a better quality of life. In 2025, the Express Entry system continues to be the fastest and most efficient immigration pathway — especially when combined with a job offer from a Canadian employer.
This comprehensive guide shows how Nigerians can secure job offers and work visas through Canada’s Express Entry program, with actionable steps, verified resources, and real opportunities.
🇨🇦 Why Canada Wants Nigerian Workers
Canada’s workforce is shrinking due to:
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Low birth rates
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An aging population
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A booming economy in need of skilled professionals
The government aims to welcome over 465,000 new permanent residents in 2025, many of whom will come through the Express Entry system — including thousands from Nigeria.
🧲 High-CPC Keywords in This Article:
Canada Express Entry Nigeria, jobs in Canada with visa sponsorship, NOC jobs Canada, Canadian PR from Nigeria, Canadian job offer
🧭 What Is Express Entry?
Express Entry is Canada’s point-based immigration system for skilled foreign workers. It manages applications for three programs:
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Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
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Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
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Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Once in the Express Entry pool, candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Those with the highest scores receive Invitations to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
✅ Bonus:
A valid job offer from a Canadian employer boosts your CRS score by 50–200 points, increasing your chances of selection dramatically.
🗺️ Step-by-Step Guide for Nigerians to Secure Job Offers via Express Entry
🔎 Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Use the official IRCC CRS Calculator to check your score.
💡 You’ll need:
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Age (best if under 35)
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Education (minimum BSc or HND)
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Work experience (skilled jobs only)
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IELTS test results
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Proof of funds
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Job offer (optional but beneficial)
🎓 Step 2: Get Your Education Credentials Assessed
You must obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to verify that your Nigerian degree is equivalent to a Canadian one.
📝 Authorized organizations include:
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WES Canada (most popular)
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ICAS
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IQAS
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CES
💡 Pro Tip: Start this early — processing takes 4–12 weeks.
🗣️ Step 3: Take the IELTS or CELPIP English Test
To qualify for Express Entry, you must prove your language ability.
🎯 Aim for:
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CLB 7+ (equivalent to IELTS 6.0+ in each band)
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Higher scores = more CRS points
📌 IELTS test centers are available in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Benin, Ibadan and more.
👨💼 Step 4: Create an Express Entry Profile
Visit Canada.ca to create your profile and enter the Express Entry pool.
You’ll need:
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Passport
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IELTS result
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ECA report
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NOC job code (use NOC 2021 list)
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Proof of funds (approx. CAD $13,757 for one person)
Your profile remains active for 12 months.
💼 Step 5: Search for a Job Offer (This Increases Your CRS Score!)
While not required, getting a job offer gives you 50–200 extra CRS points and boosts your chances of PR approval.
✅ Where Nigerians Can Find Canadian Jobs with Sponsorship:
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Indeed.ca (use “visa sponsorship” in search)
🎯 Use keywords like:
“LMIA-approved,” “visa sponsorship,” “foreign workers welcome”
🔑 Step 6: Get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Job Offer
Some employers must obtain an LMIA to legally hire you from Nigeria. This document proves there are no Canadians available for the role.
📝 LMIA jobs are gold — they give you a job offer AND up to 200 CRS points.
💡 Healthcare, tech, trucking, and construction sectors frequently sponsor through LMIA.
🧾 Step 7: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If your CRS score is high enough, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) during a bi-weekly Express Entry draw.
After receiving an ITA:
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Submit complete documents within 60 days
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Include police certificates, medicals, job letters, and financial proof
🛂 Step 8: Get Your Canadian Permanent Residence Visa
If approved, you’ll receive:
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A Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
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A Permanent Resident Visa (if needed)
🎉 Once you land in Canada, you can start working immediately and enjoy full PR benefits.
🧳 Top In-Demand Jobs for Nigerians in Canada (2025)
| Job Title | NOC Code | Estimated Annual Salary (CAD) | Sponsorship Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 31301 | $60,000 – $90,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Truck Driver | 73300 | $45,000 – $75,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Software Developer | 21232 | $70,000 – $110,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Civil Engineer | 21300 | $65,000 – $100,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Industrial Electrician | 72201 | $50,000 – $85,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Welder | 72106 | $45,000 – $75,000 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Financial Analyst | 11101 | $60,000 – $100,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Early Childhood Educator | 42202 | $40,000 – $60,000 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
✈️ Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) for Nigerians
If your CRS score is low, apply through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These allow Canadian provinces to select immigrants who meet local labor needs.
🔥 Popular PNPs:
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Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
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Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
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Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
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Saskatchewan SINP
Most allow direct applications even if you don’t have a job offer — just check eligibility.
💡 Pro Tips for Nigerians Targeting Canada Work Visas
✅ Network on LinkedIn with Canadian recruiters
✅ Join Nigerian diaspora groups in Canada for job leads
✅ Avoid fraudulent “agents” promising fake jobs
✅ Start preparing proof of funds and documents early
✅ Consider using a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC)
📌 Final Thoughts
If you’re a skilled Nigerian professional, the Canada Express Entry system is your gateway to a better life. While getting a job offer is not mandatory, it dramatically boosts your chances of success.
By following the steps in this guide, you can:
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Move to Canada legally
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Secure a job with sponsorship
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Settle permanently with your family
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Build a stable, high-income career in 2025 and beyond
