Relocation costs for Nigerians have declined by between 2% and 19% in naira terms over the past year, giving a breather to prospective emigrants.
The data on relocation costs for Nigerians was stated in the State of Japa 2026 Q3 report published by Japa Calculator, which examined relocation costs across 21 countries.
According to recent financial analytical reports, the primary catalyst behind this relief is not a reduction in foreign immigration costs, but rather the relative strengthening and stabilization of the Nigerian Naira against major global benchmark currencies like the US Dollar, British Pound, and Euro.
Comparing market exchange trends, the Naira appreciated by approximately 5.7% to 8% against the US Dollar and British Pound, and up to 11% against the Euro. This exchange rate rebound has effectively diluted the conversion shock that previously amplified relocation expenses for families and single applicants.
The report found that although visa fees and immigration requirements have increased in several destinations, the naira’s appreciation has reduced the estimated local currency cost of relocating.
However, the report noted that the reduction in naira-denominated costs does not necessarily mean that relocation has become cheaper in foreign currency terms, as visa fees and other expenses remain elevated.
The report estimated that relocation costs for Nigerians currently range between N2.8 million and N22.1 million, depending on the destination and immigration pathway.
The calculations covered visa and government fees, proof of funds where required, a one-way flight from Lagos and three months’ accommodation.
South Africa emerged as one of the least expensive destinations, with an estimated relocation cost of N2.8 million, compared with N2.9 million a year earlier.
Turkey recorded the largest percentage decline, with estimated costs falling by 19% from N4.1 million to N3.3 million.
Other destinations also recorded reductions. Canada remained the most expensive destination among the 21 countries assessed, although its estimated relocation cost declined from N24.1 million to N22.1 million.
The report attributed these reductions primarily to exchange-rate movements rather than lower immigration or living expenses abroad.
The decline in relocation costs comes amid a sustained recovery in the naira over the past year, supported by improved foreign exchange liquidity, rising external reserves and increased capital inflows.
In October 2025, the naira closed the month at N1,427.50/$, recovering from N1,602/$ in April 2025, when it recorded one of its weakest levels of the year. The recovery coincided with improvements in foreign exchange liquidity and external reserves, which reached $43.17 billion by the end of October.
The appreciation continued into 2026. The naira closed June 2026 at N1,376/$, compared with N1,532/$ in June 2025, representing a year-on-year gain of approximately 10.2%.
The improvement was linked to stronger foreign portfolio inflows, diaspora remittances and foreign exchange market reforms.
By September 2026, the currency had strengthened further to N1,329.50/$, although it subsequently weakened to N1,346/$ at the end of October. Comparing the October 2025 and October 2026 closing rates, the naira appreciated by approximately 5.7% against the dollar over the 12 months, despite renewed volatility towards the end of the review period.
The recovery was also recognised by the World Bank, which identified the naira among Africa’s more resilient currencies in the second quarter of 2026, with its maximum depreciation limited to 2.6% despite broader currency pressures across the continent.
