EB-3 vs UK Skilled Worker: What Nigerians Need to Know in 2025

Looking to Leave Nigeria? But Which Path Is Better?

For many educated, ambitious Nigerians, the idea of relocating abroad is now about making the right choice because the visa application path is more clear than ever.

Two popular migration options are the U.S. EB-3 visa and the UK Skilled Worker visa. Both offer the chance to work abroad, support your family, and build a better life. But they are very different programs with different timelines, costs, and long-term outcomes.

In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between the EB-3 and UK Skilled Worker visa, so you can make an informed choice in 2025.

What Is the EB-3 Visa for Nigerians?

The EB-3 visa is a U.S. green card program that allows foreigners to live and work in the United States through employer sponsorship.

Specifically, many Nigerians apply through the “Other Workers” category, which is for jobs requiring less than two years of experience or training.

Key Features of the EB-3:

• Leads to a green card (permanent residency)

• No university degree required

• Includes spouse and children under 21

• Sponsored by a U.S. employer

• Slower process (12–24 months) but more stable long term

If approved, you and your family move to the U.S. as lawful permanent residents with the right to work, study, and eventually apply for citizenship.

What Is the UK Skilled Worker Visa?

The UK Skilled Worker visa is a points-based immigration system designed to bring foreign professionals to the United Kingdom.

It usually requires:

• A job offer from a UK-licensed employer

• A minimum salary threshold

• Proof of English language ability

• Occupation in a “shortage list” (e.g., nurses, engineers, IT, etc.)

Key Features of the UK Skilled Worker Visa:

• Fast processing (typically 3–6 months)

• Includes family dependents

• Not a permanent visa (must live/work in UK 5+ years before applying for settlement)

• More accessible for degree holders or skilled professionals

While it’s a good route for qualified professionals, it doesn’t offer immediate permanent residency and you may be asked to leave if your job ends.

Side-by-Side Comparison: EB-3 vs UK Skilled Worker Visa

Feature	EB-3 Visa (U.S.)	UK Skilled Worker Visa
Residency	Green card from day one	Temporary visa; PR after 5+ years
Degree Required	No	Usually yes
Processing Time	12–24 months	3–6 months
Family Included	Yes (spouse + children under 21)	Yes
Job Types	Unskilled (e.g. caregiver, cleaner) and Skilled	Skilled (e.g. nurse, IT)
Long-Term Stability	Very strong	Conditional on continued employment

Which Is Easier to Qualify for from Nigeria?

That depends on your background and budget:

• If you’re a university graduate with job experience in a high-demand field (nursing, tech, engineering), the UK route may be quicker and less expensive.

• If you don’t have a degree but are willing to work in unskilled roles, the EB-3 may be your best option for permanent U.S. residency.

And while the UK visa is faster, it doesn’t come with the same long-term security. Many Nigerians on UK work visas still feel uncertain because their status depends on keeping their job and renewing their visa.

If you get an EB-3 visa and move to the U.S., you get a green card as soon as you arrive and that means you don't have any uncertainty about living there in the long term.

What Nigerians Should Consider Before Choosing

Before deciding, think about your long-term goals:

• Do you want to settle permanently with your family?

• Would you prefer a green card now or wait 5 years for permanent status?

• Can you afford the upfront cost of the EB-3?

• Are you prepared for the competitive, degree-based UK system?

Also, consider where you’ll thrive culturally. The U.S. has larger Nigerian communities, while the UK is geographically closer and shares historical ties. Both offer opportunities but your choice should reflect your values, family needs, and future plans.

The Bottom Line: Choose Based on What You Want Long-Term

If you’re looking for speed, lower cost, and a short-term plan, the UK Skilled Worker visa is appealing especially for professionals with a degree.

But if you want permanent residency from the start, the ability to bring your family, and a direct path to U.S. citizenship, the EB-3 visa is unmatched even if it takes longer and costs more.

At InvestMigrate, we specialize in helping Nigerians qualify for the EB-3 visa. We guide you through every step, from job matching to embassy interview.

Ready to Explore the EB-3 Option?

If you’re serious about building a permanent life in the U.S., we can help you take the first step. The EB-3 visa may not be as fast as the UK route but it offers something the UK doesn’t: a green card on arrival.

Contact us today to learn more about the EB-3 program and whether you're eligible.