Thinking of moving to Canada? Big news! Canada has just increased the amount of money you need to show to qualify for Express Entry. This could change everything for Nigerians hoping to make the move. Let’s break down what this means for you.
What’s Changed? Key Takeaways
- New Funds Required: Single applicants now need CAD 15,263 (about ₦17 million), up from CAD 14,690.
- Why the Change?: This comes as the U.S. tightens visa rules for Nigerians, adding extra pressure.
- Deadline Alert: Update your Express Entry profile by July 28, 2025, to stay eligible.
- Family Matters: The more family members you bring, the more money you need.
Canada’s New Money Rules: The Breakdown
Canada is serious about making sure new immigrants can support themselves. That’s why they’ve raised the bar for how much money you need to have saved up to qualify for Express Entry. As of July 7, 2025, if you’re applying under the Federal Skilled Worker or Federal Skilled Trades programs, you’ll need to prove you have access to at least CAD 15,263 (around ₦17 million) if you’re single.
How Much Do You Really Need?
It’s not just about the single applicant. If you’re bringing your family, the amount goes up:
- Two-person household: CAD 19,001 (about ₦21.2 million)
- Larger families: The amount increases with each additional family member.
U.S. Visa Issues: Is There a Connection?
This change comes right after the U.S. started giving most Nigerian visa applicants only single-entry visas valid for three months. The U.S. says it’s just trying to match Nigeria’s visa policies for Americans. Could this be part of a bigger trend of countries tightening their borders?
What Kind of Proof Do You Need?
Canada wants to see real evidence that you have the money. Acceptable documents include:
- Recent bank statements
- Official letters from your bank
- Any formal proof that you can access the funds
Remember, you can’t use the value of your property or borrowed money to meet this requirement. The money has to be yours, and you have to prove you can get to it legally.
Nigeria’s Response: What’s the Government Saying?
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs claims they didn’t change any visa policies that would cause the U.S. to make these changes. They think the U.S. might be reacting to visa issues that have been around for a while. The government is looking into the situation and will let everyone know what’s going on.
What Does This Mean for You?
These changes could make it harder for Nigerians, especially young people and those with average incomes, to move to Canada. If you’re thinking about immigrating, now is the time to get your finances in order and make sure you meet all the requirements.
Stay informed, stay prepared, and good luck!
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