In recent years, more Nigerians have been exploring opportunities abroad whether it’s for higher education, work, or simply to experience life in a new environment. But one major hurdle most people face is the visa application process.
For many, the fear of rejection, endless paperwork, and unclear requirements can be overwhelming. However, some European countries have visa systems that are more transparent, faster, and more welcoming, especially for Nigerians who meet the right criteria.
Here are 10 European countries where getting a visa is generally easier, especially when your application is well-prepared.
1. Germany
Why it’s easier: Germany offers well-structured student visa routes and has a low rejection rate for properly documented applications.
Popular visa types: Student Visa, Job Seeker Visa, Work Visa.
Bonus: Many public universities offer free or very low tuition, especially for international students.
2. France
Why it’s easier: France has strong educational partnerships with Nigeria and offers attractive scholarships like the Eiffel Excellence Program.
Popular visa types: Student Visa, Short-Stay (Tourist), Long-Stay Visa.
Bonus: Nigerian students can legally work part-time during their studies.
3. Norway
Why it’s easier: Norway has an easy-to-navigate application process and many public universities have no tuition fees (though this is changing for non-EU students).
Popular visa types: Study Permit, Work Visa.
Bonus: High visa approval rates for genuine Nigerian students.
4. Finland
Why it’s easier: Finland is welcoming to international students and offers opportunities in tech and engineering fields.
Popular visa types: Study Permit, Residence Permit for Work.
Bonus: Immigration policies have become more favorable for students and tech professionals.
5. Sweden
Why it’s easier: The visa process is transparent and straightforward, with many English-taught programs available.
Popular visa types: Student Visa, Residence Permit for Work.
6. Poland
Why it’s easier: Poland offers affordable education and has less competitive visa processing compared to other EU nations.
Popular visa types: Student Visa, Work Visa.
Bonus: A growing number of Nigerians are already studying or working in Poland, making visa officers more familiar with Nigerian applications.
7. Lithuania
Why it’s easier: Lithuania is an emerging study destination with short visa processing times and a relatively low cost of living.
Popular visa types: Study Visa, Business Visa.
8. Hungary
Why it’s easier: The Hungarian government provides full scholarships to Nigerian students through the Stipendium Hungaricum program.
Popular visa types: Study Visa, Tourist Visa.
9. Estonia
Why it’s easier: Estonia is student- and digital-nomad-friendly, with simple visa options and less strain on their immigration system.
Popular visa types: Digital Nomad Visa, Student Visa.
10. Czech Republic
Why it’s easier: Known for quality education at a low cost, the Czech Republic has a low visa rejection rate for genuine student applicants.
Popular visa types: Study Visa, Business Visa.
—THE NATION
