Nigeria’s Immigration Overhaul: A New Era of E-Visa and Streamlined Travel
The Federal Government of Nigeria has made significant strides in modernizing its immigration protocols, a transformation that officially took effect on May 1. This overhaul marks a pivotal shift from manual processes to a fully digital e-visa regime and automated entry-exit systems. The primary objectives behind these changes include bolstering national security, attracting foreign investment, and streamlining the travel experience for international visitors.
A Comprehensive E-Visa System
At the heart of this transformation is the Nigerian Immigration Service’s (NIS) implementation of an end-to-end e-visa application system. This initiative puts an end to the aging Visa on Arrival (VoA) program, which many had criticized for its inefficiencies. The new e-visa approach aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at positioning Nigeria as a competitive global destination for business and tourism.
Travelers can now easily apply online for one of 13 Short Visit Visa (SVV) categories. These categories include options for tourism, business, and medical visits, all accessible via the official e-visa portal at evisa.immigration.gov.ng. Applications are processed rapidly, typically within 48 hours, and approved visas come complete with QR codes delivered directly to applicants’ emails. It’s important to note, though, that these digital visas are non-extendable. For visitors wishing to stay longer, reapplication will be necessary.
Enhanced Entry-Exit Procedures
In tandem with the new e-visa system, the NIS has also introduced electronic landing and exit cards, replacing outdated paper forms. All inbound and outbound passengers now have to submit their travel details digitally through lecard.immigration.gov.ng. Deputy Controller Akinsola Akinlabi, the NIS Public Relations Officer, remarks that this automated system is designed to enhance real-time monitoring of traveler movements while curtailing illegal overstays.
The new protocols come with stringent compliance measures. Starting August 2, 2025, foreigners who exceed their approved length of stay will be subject to fines or legal action. To ease the transition, the government has instituted a three-month grace period from May 1 to August 1, 2025, allowing individuals with expired visas to depart voluntarily without penalties. This strategy aims to balance enforcement with flexibility, fostering adherence to regulations while protecting national interests.
Focused Security Enhancements
The reforms are a direct result of a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s visa framework conducted in 2024. One of the priority areas identified was enhancing security protocols, which now include biometric integration and digital tracking. Akinlabi has stated that these changes embody President Tinubu’s vision of reimagining Nigeria’s borders as secure, efficient, and welcoming—elements crucial for stimulating foreign investment and tourism.
As the NIS moves forward, they have hinted at potential future enhancements, including the expansion of visa categories and additional biometric advancements, reflecting a commitment to ongoing evolution in immigration management.
Shifts in Immigration Control Policies
The discontinuation of the VoA program and the introduction of stricter penalties signify a notable shift towards more rigorous immigration controls. Consequently, foreign residents in Nigeria are being urged to regularize their stays or exit the country before the August 1 deadline to avoid facing fines. Airlines and port authorities are also mandated to comply with the new electronic systems, ensuring a seamless processing experience for all travelers.
This ambitious immigration reform by the Federal Government of Nigeria represents not only a significant modernization effort but also a strategic move to enhance the country’s appeal as a destination for business and tourism. By adopting a fully digital e-visa system and automating key entry-exit processes, Nigeria is poised to transform its immigration landscape for the better.
