For many Nigerians seeking greener pastures, getting a work visa is a major step toward international employment and long-term relocation. However, not all countries make it easy or affordable to obtain a work visa. Some nations have streamlined processes, low visa fees, and a high demand for foreign labor—making them ideal options for Nigerians looking to move abroad in 2025. This article explores the cheapest countries to get a work visa for Nigerians, detailing requirements, industries in demand, and how to apply successfully.
Why Choose Cheaper Work Visa Countries?
Opting for countries with affordable visa fees and simple processes can significantly reduce the financial burden on applicants. With unemployment and economic instability affecting many in Nigeria, choosing a country where the path to a work visa is smooth, fast, and cost-effective offers an easier route to global opportunities. These countries also often have relaxed immigration laws and a welcoming attitude toward foreign professionals.
Key Factors for “Cheap” Work Visa Countries
To determine the cheapest countries for Nigerian work visa seekers, we consider the following criteria:
- Low visa application fees
- High approval rates for Nigerians
- Low cost of living during the application period
- Availability of work visa sponsorships
- No requirement for a large proof of funds
- Demand for low and medium-skilled labor
1. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Visa cost: Often covered by employer; direct application ~₦60,000–₦120,000
In-demand jobs: Security personnel, drivers, domestic workers, hotel staff, construction
How to apply:
- Secure a job offer from an employer in the UAE
- Employer applies for the work permit (Entry Permit)
- Enter UAE and complete medicals
- Employer finalizes the residence and work visa
2. Qatar
Visa cost: ₦80,000–₦150,000; often paid by employer
In-demand jobs: Cleaners, cooks, housekeepers, warehouse staff
Application steps:
- Receive an offer from a Qatari employer
- Employer processes your work permit
- Medical check and biometrics are required
- Travel with Entry Visa and convert it to a work visa on arrival
3. Turkey
Visa cost: ~₦60,000
In-demand sectors: Agriculture, textile factories, tourism, hospitality
Process:
- Employer submits application to Turkish Ministry of Labor
- You apply for a visa at the Turkish Embassy in Nigeria with your job offer
- Visa approved in 30–45 days
4. Mauritius
Visa cost: Free or up to ₦40,000
Best roles: Farm workers, hotel attendants, cleaners
Steps:
- Apply directly to companies or through job portals
- Get employer sponsorship
- Employer helps with Occupation Permit application (combines work and residence)
5. Ghana
Visa fee: ~₦30,000
Industries hiring: Teaching, NGOs, oil & gas, skilled trades
Steps:
- Secure job offer
- Employer applies for work permit at Ghana Immigration
- Upon approval, apply for work visa
6. Kenya
Visa fee: ~₦55,000
Jobs available: IT, teaching, hospitality, logistics
Application process:
- Obtain work offer
- Employer applies for a Class D Work Permit
- Submit visa application to Kenyan High Commission
7. Poland
Visa cost: ~₦45,000
High-demand jobs: Factory workers, cleaners, warehouse staff, drivers
Process:
- Employer applies for a work permit
- You use that permit to apply for National (D) visa
- Enter Poland and begin work
8. Czech Republic
Visa fee: ~₦50,000
Sectors hiring: Manufacturing, agriculture, services
Steps:
- Get a long-term job offer
- Employer sponsors your labor card application
- Apply for visa with Czech Embassy in Nigeria
9. Georgia
Visa fee: Very low or free
Opportunities: Farming, tourism, customer service
Procedure:
- Enter Georgia visa-free
- Find work within 90 days
- Employer sponsors work visa or residency
10. Serbia
Visa cost: ~₦30,000
Top sectors: Construction, farming, cleaning
How to apply:
- Get job offer
- Employer applies for work permit
- Apply for visa from the Serbian Embassy in Abuja
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Work Visa
- Use verified job boards and international recruitment platforms
- Avoid fake agents and dubious job offers
- Be honest and clear in your applications
- Prepare all required documents early (passport, police report, medicals, etc.)
- Learn basic language of the country (Polish, Arabic, Turkish, etc.) if possible
Documents Typically Required for Work Visa Application
- Valid passport (at least 6 months before expiry)
- Job offer or employment contract
- Educational/technical qualifications
- CV/resume
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical certificate
- Passport photos
- Application fee receipt
Common Mistakes Nigerians Make When Applying
- Submitting fake documents
- Using unregistered agents
- Applying for roles they are unqualified for
- Ignoring visa rules or overstaying
- Lying during embassy interviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I apply without a job offer?
In most cases, no. Most countries require a job offer before issuing a work visa. However, countries like Georgia allow you to enter visa-free and apply internally.
Q2: Can I switch from tourist visa to work visa?
Some countries allow it (e.g., Georgia, UAE), but others do not. Always check the specific country’s immigration laws.
Q3: What’s the cheapest country with English as the main language?
Ghana and Kenya are affordable English-speaking options for work visa seekers.
Q4: What’s the best job for fast visa processing?
Factory, warehouse, farm, and cleaning jobs usually have less paperwork and faster approvals.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, many countries around the world are actively seeking foreign labor and offering cheaper, easier visa pathways. Nigerians with the right information and strategy can legally migrate for work without spending millions on visa fees. If your goal is to work abroad on a tight budget, consider applying to any of the countries listed above. Make sure your documents are ready, avoid scams, and act fast—opportunities are competitive.
