Getting a job abroad is often challenging for young Africans seeking opportunities in Europe. For Rolake, who moved from Nigeria to Luxembourg in 2021, her experience was largely positive but came with the burden of “black tax.” She obtained a work visa with her brother’s help, allowing her to secure an accounting position and become more financially independent, though she still lived with her brother. Moving to Luxembourg after COVID, she found the job lucrative enough to cover her expenses, including a €2,000 rent, utilities, and internet. However, as she settled and planned for the future, she faced the unexpected challenge of black tax—supporting family back home.
In the context of ‘Japa,’ black tax refers to the financial obligation Nigerians abroad feel to support less-fortunate family members, such as parents and siblings. This shared sense of family responsibility is often viewed by both sides as a duty. Rolake sees black tax as an economic obstacle that hampers Africans’ growth, but she still feels compelled to assist family and friends when they ask for help. She mentions that this obligation prevents quick personal advancement, yet she manages her finances well enough to pay her rent and send up to N800,000 to Nigeria each month.
Rolake often sends between N500,000 and N800,000 monthly to her family in Nigeria, though she recently reduced her contributions to pursue other plans. Despite investing in language and driving classes for herself and her children, she couldn’t ignore the ongoing requests for help from friends and relatives. She admits she isn’t strict with her spending.
To sustain her support, Rolake took on a second job as a hair stylist, working weekends in Germany—her border town is close by—to earn extra income. She makes between €50 and €200 per client, depending on the location and their status. Her primary income comes from her accounting job, but the hair styling provides additional funds exclusively for sending money home.
Recently, in November 2024, her family—her husband and children—joined her in Luxembourg, aiming to lessen the black tax burden.