In recent years, relocating abroad or what we popularly call “japa” has become a major aspiration for many Nigerians. Whether it’s for education, work, or a better quality of life, more people are making serious moves to start afresh in countries like Canada, the UK, the US, Germany, and Australia.
But while the dream is valid, the process is not always straightforward. In fact, a lot of Nigerians lose millions or face major setbacks simply because they didn’t plan properly or fell for avoidable traps.
If you’re planning to relocate, here are 9 common mistakes many Nigerians make and how you can avoid falling into the same traps.
- Falling Victim to Visa and Job Scams
This one is sadly all too common. Desperate to leave the country, many people fall into the hands of fake agents who promise jobs abroad, student visas, or work permits all for a hefty fee. These scammers are smooth operators, often backed by fake documents and convincing stories. Victims have lost millions to non-existent job offers, forged admission letters, and even fake flight bookings.
Avoid this mistake:
Before paying anyone for relocation help, verify. Only work with licensed immigration consultants or use official embassy websites. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Ignoring Immigration Rules Before You Travel
Some Nigerians assume that getting a visa is the hardest part but that’s just the beginning. Different countries have specific rules about work permits, visa types, post-arrival documentation, and long-term residency. If you don’t understand what your visa allows you to do before you travel, you might land into trouble.
Avoid this mistake:
Take time to understand the visa you’re applying for. Can you work with it? Can you bring dependents? What are the conditions for renewal or permanent residency? These are questions you need to get clear answers to, not from WhatsApp groups or Twitter threads, but from official sources or professionals.
- Breaking Immigration Laws After You Arrive
Another major mistake is ignoring the rules after getting to your destination. Things like overstaying your visa, working without authorization, or failing to register with local immigration authorities can lead to fines, deportation, or bans.
Avoid this mistake:
Once you arrive, stay compliant. Know your visa limits, track your renewal dates, and don’t assume you can “sort it out later.” Countries like the UK, Canada, and Germany take immigration breaches seriously.
- Not Researching the Country You’re Moving To
A lot of people pick a country just because “everyone is going there.” But every country and even every city has its own realities: job market, cost of living, weather, rent, and lifestyle. Moving to a place that doesn’t suit your background or goals can lead to disappointment.
Avoid this mistake:
Do proper research not just on the country, but the specific city or region you’re planning to settle in. For example, the job opportunities in Lagos are not the same as those in Kano; same goes for moving from Toronto to Nova Scotia. Choose where to live based on facts, not hype.
- No Real Financial Plan
Some people japa with only enough money to book flights, hoping that things will “work themselves out” on arrival. That’s a risky game and it often ends in financial stress, low-paying survival jobs, or worse, returning home empty-handed.
Avoid this mistake:
Create a solid relocation budget. Include visa fees, flights, accommodation, cost of living for at least 3–6 months, and emergency funds. If you’re going as a student, plan for more than just tuition — what will you eat? How will you pay rent? What if you don’t get a job immediately?
- Underestimating Cost of Living Abroad
Life abroad is expensive. Rent, transport, groceries, health insurance, childcare, everything adds up quickly. Many Nigerians relocate without knowing how much day-to-day life truly costs in their new country.
Avoid this mistake:
Use tools like Numbeo, Expatistan, or ask Nigerians already living in your destination what their monthly expenses look like. Plan for reality, not assumptions.
- No Health or Travel Insurance
Back in Nigeria, it’s normal to walk into a pharmacy or hospital without insurance. Abroad, that’s a luxury you can’t afford. A single medical emergency in the US, UK, or Canada could wipe out your savings.
Avoid this mistake:
Always travel with valid health insurance. If you’re relocating permanently or as a student, make sure your insurance covers you from Day 1 not after you’re already sick.
- No Community or Support Network
Moving to a new country where you don’t know anyone can be lonely and it can make settling in much harder. Some Nigerians isolate themselves, hoping to “figure it out alone,” but that often leads to unnecessary struggles.
Avoid this mistake:
Connect with the Nigerian or African community in your area. Join church groups, student associations, or online forums. Having people who understand your background can help with job leads, accommodation, and emotional support.
- Ignoring Language and Communication Barriers
Even in English-speaking countries, accents and cultural communication styles can be a barrier. In non-English-speaking countries, it’s even more critical to be able to communicate not just to get by, but to thrive.
Avoid this mistake:
Invest in language training early. If you’re moving to a place like Germany, France, or Quebec, start learning the local language months before you go. Even in the UK or US, understanding local slang and tone helps with integration.
Final Thoughts
Relocating abroad can be one of the most rewarding moves you’ll ever make but only if it’s done right. Too many Nigerians lose money, time, and energy because they rushed the process, trusted the wrong people, or simply didn’t prepare well.
At Jit Travels, we help Nigerians plan smarter, avoid scams, and relocate with confidence. Whether you’re moving for work, school, or family, our team is here to guide you every step of the way from visa prep to post-arrival support.
