Indians had the most Canadian work permits with a 32% share; Nigeria was among the top ten as of December 2023
As of December 2023, Indians accounted for one in three holders of Canadian work permits, representing 32% of the total (1.76 million). Ukraine followed with almost 10%. Nigeria came 8th, with 2% of the permit holders.
Eight African countries, including Burundi, Cape Verde, and Kenya, lead the way with a perfect score of 198, setting the standard for unrestricted accessibility and visa-free entry.
Nations with high scores will likely attract increased tourism, business opportunities, and cultural exchange, positioning themselves as hubs for international engagement.
Nigeria has a score of 49 out of 198, showing a relatively low openness.
Since the 2007/08 academic year, Nigeria has consistently held the top spot for the number of African international students in the US. Before this, Kenya and Egypt also led in certain periods.
This trend highlights the evolving landscape of African students pursuing education in the US over the decades.
Nigeria remains the leading African country of origin for students in the US, with over 20,000 enrolled this year.
Ghana, however, recorded the continent's fastest growth rate at 45%. This increase of over 2,900 students brought Ghana’s total to nearly 9,400, making it the second-largest source of African students in the US.
Nigeria also saw a 13.5% rise, adding more than 2,380 students year-over-year.
Overall, the number of students from African countries in the US grew by nearly 12% in the 2023/24 academic year.
