Nigeria Visa Policy 2025

Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 – Public Announcement

The Federal Ministry of Interior has introduced the Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 (NVP 2025), introducing important changes to Nigeria’s visa and immigration procedures. The reforms are aimed at improving efficiency, digitalising immigration processes and strengthening border management.

Suspension of Visa-on-Arrival

From 1 May 2025, Nigeria discontinued the existing Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) programme for nationals who require a visa to enter Nigeria.

Nationals of ECOWAS member states, as well as Cameroon and Chad, who benefit from Nigeria’s visa-abolition arrangements may continue to enter Nigeria without a prior visa. Other foreign nationals must obtain the appropriate eVisa or other visa approval before travelling.

Landing and Exit Card Requirements

All travellers entering or departing Nigeria, regardless of visa type, are required to complete the relevant online Landing (Arrival) Card and Exit (Departure) Card.

These forms form part of Nigeria’s new digital immigration and border-management system.

Introduction of e-CERPAC

The Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) process is being transitioned to an electronic platform.

The new e-CERPAC will enable eligible expatriates to complete the process before arriving in Nigeria. It will serve as an entry permit valid for 30 days, after which the expatriate will receive the CERPAC green card in Nigeria. The system is intended to reduce the need for post-arrival regularisation.

Amnesty for Undocumented Foreigners

An amnesty programme has been introduced for certain foreigners whose visas, CERPAC or other immigration documents have expired.

Eligible persons are encouraged to use the amnesty period to regularise their immigration status. Those who fail to regularise their status may subsequently be subject to applicable immigration penalties.

Overstay Penalties

The NVP 2025 introduces revised penalties for overstaying in Nigeria, including a **US$15 daily fine.

Overstays of three months to one year may result in a one-year entry ban, while overstays exceeding one year may result in a three-year ban. Longer or serious immigration violations may also lead to blacklisting and additional sanctions.

Other Changes

The new policy also introduces additional visa categories, expands electronic visa processing, provides for online Temporary Work Permit applications, and strengthens pre-arrival screening through the use of passenger and security information.

All foreign nationals travelling to Nigeria are advised to check the applicable immigration requirements and ensure that all required applications and documentation are completed before travelling.