No doubt, immigration is a part of human history. And in the 21st century, Africans have been at the centre stage of this phenomenon. According to Statista, more than 40 million people emigrated from the continent in 2020 alone. Many of the immigrants originated from Eastern and Northern Africa.

Now, that’s a lot of people leaving the motherland! And you can’t blame them because most people relocate in search of better economic opportunities and higher standards of living. A recent study by the United Nations University found that economic inequality, political instability and climate change are among the factors driving more Africans to immigrate.

Tips For Successful Relocation Abroad

As you may well know, there is more to immigration than just packing your luggage and going off; especially in the 21st century. The decision to immigrate requires a lot of consideration and planning. Among these considerations are the questions: what is the best route for me to immigrate? And which country should I emigrate to?

Below are the 5 proven ways Africans can easily immigrate to Canada, the US, the UK, Australia, etc.

1. The Academic Route

This route is a viable option for young Africans, especially those hoping to immigrate to the United Kingdom. According to information obtained from the UK’s Home Office website, “the Graduate route allows the UK to retain the brightest and the best international students to contribute to society and the economy post-study under the points-based immigration system.”

There are several ways to go about this route. For one, you can start by self-funding your study in the UK. There are also available fully-funded scholarships that can be leveraged, although these scholarships typically require you to return to your home country once you have completed your studies.

2. Work/Skilled Labour Route

Another easy way  through which many Africans are easily immigrating to other parts of the world is through the skilled labour route. As its name suggests, this route requires you to be skilled and ready to work to make meaningful contributions to the economies of the country you are hoping to relocate to.

Countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia, Norway and more are constantly looking for skilled workers such as doctors, nurses, radiologists, IT professionals, etc. This presents immense opportunities for Africans. However, you will be required to pass certain tests as well as meet other criteria before you can immigrate.

Also, note that companies with global operations (such as PwC, Ernst $ Young, Nestle, etc.) are known to periodically facilitate the visa application process for some of their African employees. But that is usually on the condition that the said employees have been able to secure jobs abroad.

3. The Permanent Residency Route

Chances are, you have heard of the Canadian Permanent Residency Programme. Many Africans, have easily immigrated to the North American country through this route.

According to findings, the Canadian PR programme is overseen by a Canadian government department known as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, IRCC. The IRCC “facilitates the entry of permanent residents in a way that maximizes their economic, social, and cultural contribution to Canada while at the same time protecting the health, safety, and security of Canadians.”

To immigrate to Canada through the Permanent Residency route, you will have to pass the eligibility test. You may visit the Canadian immigration office’s website to learn more.

It’s important to point out that Australia also has a permanent residency. You may learn about the requirements by visiting the Australian immigration department’s website.

4. Spousal Visa Route

This is perhaps the easiest way some Africans can immigrate to Europe, America, Asia and other places. The basic thing that is required of you is to fall in love and marry someone who is already resident abroad. And voila! You are on your way…

Oh well, maybe it’s not as easy as it sounds after all. Different countries have different requirements for a spousal visa. So, do the needful first by falling in love and marrying the love of your life. Afterwards, find out the spousal visa requirements for the country he or she is resident in.

5. Citizenship by investment Route

This option is mostly favoured by high-net-worth Africans. As its name indicates, it entails securing the citizenship/passport of another country by way of investing in the country. Again, this is not a route that is available to most Africans. However, if you have the wherewithal to explore it, then why not?

Good luck.