Relocating as a couple without spending millions is possible when you choose smart destinations, apply for low-cost migration routes, and make the most of shared expenses.
Many couples in Nigeria are moving abroad successfully on a low budget by leveraging scholarship opportunities, visa sponsorship jobs, digital income,
and affordable countries that welcome skilled migrants or students.
With the right plan and clear priorities, you can leave the country together without emptying your savings.
Start with the right mindset. You don’t need luxury to start a new life abroad.
The first phase of relocation is about getting in, getting stable, and growing from there. Many couples relocate through one partner first, then reunite later under a dependent visa.
Others move together through student visas or job offers. What matters most is picking a relocation path that is realistic, legal, and sustainable.
Choose Affordable Countries with Open Immigration Routes
Certain countries offer cheaper and more accessible routes for Nigerians.
Instead of focusing only on Canada, the UK, or the US, look into lesser-known but equally promising countries that offer better affordability and lower entry barriers.
Here are low-cost countries to consider:
1. Georgia
Located between Europe and Asia, Georgia is visa-free for Nigerians for up to 90 days. The cost of living is low, and rent is cheap compared to Europe or North America.
Many couples move here first, then use it as a base to plan for longer-term European relocation. Georgia allows residency permits through business, work, or study with minimal fees.
2. Turkey
Turkey offers e-visa access for Nigerians (https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/) and provides residence permits for students, workers, or businesspeople.
The cost of living in cities like Ankara or Izmir is far lower than in the UK or US. As a couple, you can rent a decent one-bedroom apartment for under ₦200,000 per month.
3. Portugal
Portugal is one of the easiest EU countries to enter through work, student visas, or digital nomad programs.
As a couple, you can survive on €1,000/month in smaller cities. Once one person has legal residency, the other can join as a spouse.
4. Mauritius
Mauritius welcomes foreign professionals, students, and retirees.
If you’re a skilled worker or freelancer, apply for the Mauritius Premium Visa (https://www.edbmauritius.org/premium-visa/) to live there legally while working remotely.
5. Caribbean Nations
Countries like St. Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, or Antigua and Barbuda offer work permits and family-friendly immigration routes.
The climate, culture, and visa pathways make them suitable for low-budget relocation.
Apply for Scholarships That Cover Dependents
If one partner secures a fully funded scholarship abroad, the other can apply as a dependent spouse.
This strategy saves a lot of money because tuition and living costs are covered by the scholarship provider.
Some scholarships that support dependents include:
- DAAD Scholarships (Germany) – Offers full tuition, monthly stipend, and supports bringing your spouse and children. (https://www.daad.de/en/)
- Chevening Scholarship (UK) – Though dependents are not officially covered, many scholars bring spouses by saving from the stipend. (https://www.chevening.org/)
- Swedish Institute Scholarships (Sweden) – Covers both tuition and living costs; spouses can join and work. (https://si.se/en/apply/scholarships/)
- New Zealand Manaaki Scholarships – Includes a living allowance and support for dependents. (https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/)
When applying, make sure your partner’s documents are ready: birth certificates, marriage certificate, travel passport, and police clearance. Dependents must also prove they are legally married or cohabiting.
Go the Work Visa Route with Job Sponsorships
Finding a job abroad with visa sponsorship is another affordable way to relocate as a couple.
Once one person secures a job, the other can follow as a dependent.
Some employers even assist with travel and accommodation.
Target countries with high demand for foreign workers:
- UK Health and Care Worker Visa – Many Nigerians have relocated through care jobs. Apply to licensed sponsors only. (https://www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa)
- Germany Skilled Worker Visa – In-demand professions include IT, engineering, and healthcare. Germany allows family reunification once you get a job. (https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/)
- Australia Skilled Migration – If you meet points requirements, apply for permanent residency and move with your partner. (https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/)
Use job boards like:
Keep your CV and LinkedIn updated. Ensure your spouse’s details are ready so they can apply for a family visa after the principal applicant secures their job.
Leverage Remote Work and Digital Nomad Visas
If one or both of you can work remotely, relocating becomes much easier.
Several countries now offer Digital Nomad Visas that allow remote workers and their families to live abroad legally while earning online.
Popular destinations with affordable Digital Nomad Visas include:
- Estonia – Offers a 1-year digital nomad visa. Spouses can also apply. (https://nomadvisa.mkm.ee/)
- Croatia – Welcomes remote workers and allows dependents. Cost of living is low. (https://digitalnomadscroatia.mup.hr/)
- Barbados Welcome Stamp – Valid for one year. Families included. (https://www.visitbarbados.org/welcome-stamp)
- Cape Verde – Has a remote worker program with family inclusion. (https://remoteworkers.digital/cape-verde)
If you’re a freelancer, graphic designer, virtual assistant, software developer, or online seller, this path suits you.
Income proof is required, but you’ll avoid schooling or job application hassles.
Start Small With a One-Person Move
You don’t always have to move together at once.
In many successful cases, one person relocates first to study, work, or volunteer.
After securing legal residency and income, they apply to bring their spouse.
Advantages of this method:
- Cheaper flights and visa processing.
- Easier to get a visa alone.
- No pressure to rent a large apartment immediately.
- One partner can find work and apply for family reunification.
This staggered approach has helped many Nigerian couples migrate successfully without needing millions upfront.
Use Volunteer or Cultural Exchange Programs
Certain global volunteer programs offer free accommodation, food, and visa support in exchange for your time and skills.
Some allow couples to apply together or accommodate spouses after arrival.
Top programs to consider:
- Workaway – Offers placements across Europe and America. Many hosts accept couples. (https://www.workaway.info/)
- WWOOF – Volunteer on organic farms worldwide in exchange for housing and meals. (https://wwoof.net/)
- AIESEC Global Volunteer – Offers short-term volunteer exchanges that can serve as an entry point. (https://aiesec.org/)
Though these are not permanent routes, they help you get into a country cheaply, settle for a while, and explore better long-term options while living affordably.
Cut Costs by Planning Like a Team
Your financial success depends on how well you collaborate as a couple.
Shared goals make relocation smoother. Here’s how to stretch every naira:
- Share one visa route: Let one person be the lead applicant (job or school), the other joins as dependent.
- Cut rent costs: Use shared accommodation or student housing when starting out.
- Skip relocation agents: Process your visa applications directly through embassy websites.
- Use budget airlines: Travel with carriers like EgyptAir, Turkish Airlines, or Ethiopian Airlines for cheaper fares.
- Cook your meals: Dining out abroad adds up fast. Learn to cook your Nigerian meals with local ingredients.
- Avoid debt: Don’t borrow excessively to relocate. Aim for sustainability, not desperation.
Document Readiness Is Key
To avoid surprises, have the following documents for both partners:
- International passports (valid for at least 6 months)
- Marriage certificate (if married)
- Police clearance certificate
- Academic certificates
- Medical records
- Proof of funds (especially if studying or applying for family reunification)
Scan and save them in multiple places—cloud storage, email, and flash drives.
Proper documentation increases your approval chances and makes future processes faster.
Secure Income Before or Shortly After Moving
Income is the backbone of relocation. Without it, stress will multiply. Ensure one or both of you can start earning quickly. Options include:
- Remote work before moving
- On-campus jobs for students
- Part-time jobs allowed under your visa
- Freelance work on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour
Building income early means you can avoid financial shocks, pay your rent on time, and start planning for your spouse’s arrival if you traveled first.
Stay Informed and Use Free Resources
Follow YouTube channels and blogs that specialize in low-budget migration. Examples:
- WakaWaka Doctor on YouTube
- Diary of a Nigerian Abroad
- Study-in-Germany.org
- Scholarship Positions (https://www.scholarshippositions.com/)
- Travelwaka blog
They share detailed info on visa types, free schools, and step-by-step application guides.
Final Words
Relocating as a couple without spending millions is realistic when you choose the right destination, follow affordable visa routes, and support each other financially and emotionally.
You don’t need to wait till everything is perfect. Once you have a plan, steady income, and complete documentation, start your process.
Every couple’s journey is different, but the goal is the same—freedom, opportunity, and a better life abroad.
