How Much Will It Cost to Relocate from Nigeria to the USA?
Relocating from Nigeria to the USA is a significant life decision that requires careful planning and a clear understanding of the associated costs. This comprehensive guide will break down the expenses you can expect, helping you prepare financially for this major move. From visa applications to settling down in your new home, we will cover every detail to give you a realistic picture of the costs involved.
How Much Will It Cost to Relocate from Nigeria to the USA?.
lets get started with the estimation, be sure to read till the end as all the information in this page will be very important for you
1. Visa Application Fees
The first major cost in your relocation journey is the visa application fee. The type of visa you apply for will determine the exact fee. Here are some common visa categories and their associated costs:
- Tourist Visa (B-1/B-2): $160 (₦240,000)
- Student Visa (F-1): $160 (₦240,000)
- Work Visa (H-1B): $190 (₦285,000)
- Immigrant Visa (Green Card): $325 (₦487,500)
- Diversity Visa Lottery Fee: $330 (₦495,000) if selected
In addition to these fees, there may be other associated costs such as SEVIS fees for student visas ($350, ₦525,000) and attorney fees if you hire an immigration lawyer, which can range from $1,000 to $3,000 (₦1,500,000 to ₦4,500,000).
2. Medical Examination and Vaccinations
Before your visa interview, you will need to undergo a medical examination by an approved physician. The cost of this examination varies but generally ranges between $200 to $500 (₦300,000 to ₦750,000). Additionally, you might need vaccinations, which can add another $100 to $200 (₦150,000 to ₦300,000) to your total expenses.
3. Travel Expenses
The cost of a one-way flight from Nigeria to the USA can vary significantly depending on the time of year, airline, and city of departure and arrival. On average, you can expect to pay between $700 and $1,500 (₦1,050,000 to ₦2,250,000) for an economy class ticket.
4. Shipping and Moving Costs
If you plan to take personal belongings with you, shipping costs can be substantial. Here are some estimates for shipping household goods:
- Small Move (1-bedroom apartment): $2,000 to $4,000 (₦3,000,000 to ₦6,000,000)
- Medium Move (2-3 bedroom home): $5,000 to $8,000 (₦7,500,000 to ₦12,000,000)
- Large Move (4+ bedroom home): $10,000 to $15,000 (₦15,000,000 to ₦22,500,000)
You might also need temporary storage, which can cost around $100 to $200 (₦150,000 to ₦300,000) per month.
5. Initial Living Expenses
Upon arrival in the USA, you will need to cover your initial living expenses until you settle into a routine. Here are some of the major expenses you should budget for:
- Accommodation: Renting an apartment can cost between $1,000 to $3,000 (₦1,500,000 to ₦4,500,000) per month depending on the city. You may also need to pay a security deposit, which is usually equivalent to one month’s rent.
- Utilities: Expect to pay around $150 to $300 (₦225,000 to ₦450,000) per month for utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet).
- Groceries and Food: A monthly grocery bill for one person can range from $200 to $400 (₦300,000 to ₦600,000).
- Transportation: If you plan to use public transportation, a monthly pass can cost between $70 to $120 (₦105,000 to ₦180,000). If you intend to buy a car, the costs will be significantly higher, including the price of the vehicle, insurance, and fuel.
- Miscellaneous: Other expenses such as mobile phone plans, clothing, and personal care items can add another $100 to $300 (₦150,000 to ₦450,000) per month.
6. Education and Childcare
If you are moving with children, education and childcare will be another major cost. Public schools are free, but private schools can range from $10,000 to $30,000 (₦15,000,000 to ₦45,000,000) per year. Childcare costs can vary widely, with daycare centers charging between $400 to $1,200 (₦600,000 to ₦1,800,000) per month.
7. Health Insurance
Healthcare in the USA is expensive, and having health insurance is essential. The cost of health insurance varies based on the plan you choose, but on average, individual health insurance premiums can range from $200 to $600 (₦300,000 to ₦900,000) per month.
8. Contingency Fund
It’s wise to have a contingency fund to cover unexpected expenses during your transition period. A recommended amount would be at least $2,000 to $5,000 (₦3,000,000 to ₦7,500,000).
Total Estimated Costs for Relocating from Nigeria to the USA
To give you a better understanding, here is a summarized breakdown of the estimated costs for relocating from Nigeria to the USA:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Estimated Cost (NGN) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Application Fees | $160 – $3,000 | ₦240,000 – ₦4,500,000 |
| Medical Examination & Vaccines | $300 – $700 | ₦450,000 – ₦1,050,000 |
| Travel Expenses | $700 – $1,500 | ₦1,050,000 – ₦2,250,000 |
| Shipping and Moving Costs | $2,000 – $15,000 | ₦3,000,000 – ₦22,500,000 |
| Initial Living Expenses | $1,650 – $4,800 | ₦2,475,000 – ₦7,200,000 |
| Education & Childcare | $10,000 – $30,000 | ₦15,000,000 – ₦45,000,000 |
| Health Insurance | $200 – $600/month | ₦300,000 – ₦900,000/month |
| Contingency Fund | $2,000 – $5,000 | ₦3,000,000 – ₦7,500,000 |
The total cost of relocating from Nigeria to the USA can range from $17,010 to $60,600 (₦25,515,000 to ₦90,900,000), depending on various factors including your personal circumstances, lifestyle choices, and the city you are moving to.
it can be lower if you remove some expenses like Education if you are not planning to study there, or if you are not taking any child there. also beware that Contingency Fund is not really money you need to spend, however, you need to have the money in your bank account to proof that you can really succeed in USA
Conclusion
Relocating to the USA from Nigeria is a major financial undertaking that requires careful planning and budgeting. By understanding the various costs involved, you can better prepare for a smooth transition. Ensure you have sufficient funds to cover all expenses and consider consulting with financial and relocation experts to help you navigate the process efficiently. With thorough preparation, you can make your move to the USA a successful and rewarding experience