Some countries are considered among the easiest to immigrate to without requiring a university degree, offering opportunities for individuals with little or no formal higher education.

This flexibility enables many to relocate and build new lives abroad, regardless of academic qualifications.

According to a ranking compiled by Insider Monkey, the list of such countries was determined using three key factors: the percentage of low-educated foreign-born residents who have settled in the last five years (OECD Indicators of Immigrant Integration, 2023), employment rates among foreign-born individuals with low education levels, and the proportion of international migrants in the population (Migration Data Portal, 2020).

These metrics were averaged to determine the countries with the most favorable conditions for immigrants without degrees.

Here are 12 easiest countries Nigerians can relocate to without a degree:

Luxembourg — average percentage: 43

Luxembourg’s foreign-born population consists of 12% with low education levels, while the employment rate for this group is 71%. The country has a significant international migrant population, accounting for 48% of its residents. Luxembourg’s advanced economy has made it an attractive destination for individuals without higher qualifications, and the country offers various employment opportunities for those with lower levels of education.

Malta — average percentage: 42

Malta has a foreign-born population where 24% have low education levels, and the employment rate for this group is 74%. International migrants make up 26% of the country’s population. These statistics indicate a growing trend of migration to Malta, with opportunities available for those without a degree. The relatively high employment rate for foreign-born individuals with low education suggests that integration into the labour market is achievable.

Greece — average percentage: 41

Greece has the highest proportion of foreign-born residents with low education levels, at 56%, while the employment rate for this group is 53%. International migrants constitute 13% of the population. The high percentage of low-educated foreign-born individuals suggests that Greece has flexible immigration policies. Despite a slightly lower employment rate, there are still job opportunities for immigrants with limited education.

Cyprus — average percentage: 39

Cyprus has a foreign-born population with 30% holding low education levels, and the employment rate for this group is 71%. International migrants make up 16% of the population. Cyprus presents a viable option for individuals without higher education, with a strong employment rate for low-educated foreign-born residents. This makes it one of the easier countries to immigrate to without a degree.

Italy — average percentage: 41

In Italy, 53% of the foreign-born population has low levels of education, and the employment rate for this group is 58%. International migrants represent 11% of the population. Italy’s rich cultural heritage and economic opportunities have attracted many expats, including those with limited educational qualifications. Although the employment rate is lower than in other countries, the presence of job opportunities for foreign-born individuals without degrees remains.

Iceland — average percentage: 43

In Iceland, approximately 30% of the foreign-born population has low levels of education, and the employment rate for this group stands at 81%. International migrants make up 19% of the population. These figures suggest that Iceland is a favourable destination for migrants with lower educational qualifications. The high employment rate for foreign-born individuals with limited education is particularly noteworthy, indicating that job opportunities exist for those without a degree.

Sweden — average percentage: 39

In Sweden, 39% of the foreign-born population has low levels of education, and the employment rate for this group is 57%. International migrants constitute 20% of the population. Sweden’s relatively high employment rate for low-educated individuals and its significant international migrant population make it a favourable destination for those seeking to migrate without a degree.

Germany — average percentage: 38

Germany’s foreign-born population includes 38% with low education levels, and the employment rate for this group is 58%. International migrants account for 19% of the population. As one of Europe’s strongest economies, Germany offers a range of employment opportunities for individuals without higher qualifications. The data shows that foreign-born residents with limited education can find work, making it a suitable option for migrants without degrees.

Switzerland — average percentage: 35

In Switzerland, 11% of the foreign-born population has low education levels, and the employment rate for this group is 65%. International migrants represent 29% of the population. Although Switzerland has a lower percentage of foreign-born residents with limited education, the employment rate for this group is relatively high. This suggests that there are still opportunities available for immigrants without a degree.

Finland — average percentage: 34

Finland has a foreign-born population, 39% of which have low education levels, and the employment rate for this group is 58%. International migrants make up 7% of the population. Finland’s growing reputation as a potential destination for immigrants without higher qualifications is reflected in its employment rate for low-educated foreign-born individuals. Despite the smaller migrant population, Finland offers opportunities for those without a degree.

Denmark — average percentage: 34

In Denmark, 31% of the foreign-born population has low education levels, and the employment rate for this group is 59%. International migrants constitute 12% of the population. Denmark offers various opportunities for immigrants with lower levels of education, as evidenced by its employment rate for foreign-born residents. The country’s moderate migrant population indicates that it is a feasible option for those without a degree.

Hungary — average percentage: 34

Hungary’s foreign-born population includes 15% with low education levels, and the employment rate for this group is 80%. International migrants account for 6% of the population. Hungary has seen a rise in popularity among expats, offering employment opportunities for individuals without higher education. The high employment rate for foreign-born residents with limited education is particularly encouraging for prospective migrants. (The Nation)