A growing number of countries are becoming more accessible for immigrants without university degrees, providing employment opportunities and favorable integration conditions.
According to a ranking by Insider Monkey, 12 countries stood out for welcoming migrants with little or no formal higher education. The study evaluated three key indicators:
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The percentage of low-educated foreign-born residents settled in the past five years (OECD, 2023),
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Employment rates for this group, and
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The proportion of international migrants in the overall population (Migration Data Portal, 2020).
The average of these figures determined how open and favorable a country is to immigrants without degrees.
Top Countries Nigerians Can Relocate to Without a Degree:
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Luxembourg – Average Index: 43%
With 48% of its population being international migrants and a 71% employment rate among low-educated migrants, Luxembourg is a leading option for non-degree holders. -
Iceland – Average Index: 43%
Boasts an impressive 81% employment rate for low-educated migrants, with foreigners making up 19% of the population. -
Malta – Average Index: 42%
With a 74% employment rate and a growing foreign-born population, Malta offers strong labor integration for low-skilled migrants. -
Greece – Average Index: 41%
Although the employment rate is moderate at 53%, 56% of its foreign-born population has low education, suggesting flexible migration policies. -
Italy – Average Index: 41%
With 53% of foreign-born residents lacking a degree, Italy remains a viable choice despite a 58% employment rate. -
Cyprus – Average Index: 39%
Has a 71% employment rate for low-educated migrants and a 16% foreign-born population, making it a top option. -
Sweden – Average Index: 39%
Offers a 57% employment rate for non-degree holders and has a large migrant community (20%). -
Germany – Average Index: 38%
Europe’s largest economy provides a 58% employment rate for this demographic, with 19% of its population being international migrants. -
Switzerland – Average Index: 35%
Though only 11% of foreign-born residents have low education, their employment rate is relatively high at 65%. -
Finland – Average Index: 34%
With a 58% employment rate and growing inclusivity, Finland is becoming more welcoming to non-degree holders. -
Denmark – Average Index: 34%
31% of its foreign-born population has low education, and the employment rate stands at 59%, making it a practical choice. -
Hungary – Average Index: 34%
Despite a smaller migrant population (6%), Hungary boasts an 80% employment rate among low-educated foreigners.
These countries demonstrate that higher education is not always a barrier to international migration. With solid employment prospects and inclusive immigration policies, Nigerians and others without degrees have growing relocation options.
