If you are planning to travel into or out of Nigeria, it’s essential to be aware that many immigration rules that were in place at the beginning of the year have changed. Staying informed about these new regulations can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience, free from immigration issues.
Understanding the changes is crucial—what works, what you need to know before your flight, and how the new departure processes are structured can significantly impact your journey.
A must-watch video documentary by Adachi Uchenchu, a popular travel YouTube journalist, has been released in collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). This video thoroughly outlines the new immigration rules and processes for travelers entering or exiting Nigeria through its international airports.
Scrap of Visa-On-Arrival
A significant change to note is the discontinuation of the visa-on-arrival policy. As of May 1, 2025, Nigeria has shifted to an e-visa system for travelers from over 170 countries, with citizens of ECOWAS nations being the only exception. This transition is part of Nigeria’s commitment to digitalize and secure its borders, while simultaneously enhancing travel convenience.
This means that travelers must apply for their e-visa before departure, as the option for visa-on-arrival or applying at the airport is no longer available. The application process is designed to be quick, typically taking between 24 to 48 hours, but it’s recommended to apply at least one week prior to your flight. Without an approved visa, boarding is prohibited, and airlines face fines for non-compliance. If you’re flying into Nigeria, ensure that you receive your e-visa via email, print it, and carry a copy with you.
Biometrics
Upon arrival, travelers will now undergo biometric screening, which includes fingerprint scans and facial recognition. This upgrade aims to enhance not only the travel experience but also the security of Nigeria’s borders.
Landing and Exit Cards
The traditional manual landing and exit cards have been replaced with automated digital forms. These forms are mandatory and must be completed online within 96 hours (4 days) before your travel. This system serves as a digital check-in and check-out, improving efficiency. The forms become available for completion only four days before your flight.
When you arrive at immigration, your passport details will automatically retrieve your landing cards in their system, helping to identify any red flags in advance. This means shorter waiting times, fewer inquiries, reduced paperwork, and quicker arrivals.
Difference Between e-Visa and Landing Cards
It’s vital to understand the difference between the e-visa and landing cards. The e-visa allows you entry into Nigeria, while the landing cards provide details about your travel and stay, such as flight information and purpose of travel. Both documents are essential for entry; neglecting one may result in rejections at immigration.
To complete these forms, visit the official Nigeria Immigration Services portal. This platform allows you to fill out landing and exit cards prior to arrival and departure. It is also advisable to save a copy of these forms on your phone; entering incorrect passport numbers or dates of birth can invalidate your card, leading to delays or refusal of boarding.
Expired Passports
Nigerians with expired passports can now apply for a special landing ID card created for this situation. Simply navigate to the immigration official portal, locate the section that addresses issues traveling back to Nigeria with an expired passport, and apply for the Landing Card ID. Ensure to submit your application at least four days before your departure and print the confirmation to present at the airport.
For expatriates facing difficulties departing Nigeria due to visa issues, applying for exit cards is necessary. This process mirrors that of landing cards; the application must be made online at least four days before departure, followed by printing confirmation for airport presentation.
Overstayed Visas
Overstaying your visa in Nigeria can lead to hefty consequences. Starting August 1, 2025, expect a daily fine of $15, a five-year entry ban for overstaying by six months, and a permanent ban for over a year. A grace period is currently in effect until the mentioned deadline.
Health Clearance
If arriving from a country that poses a yellow fever risk, it’s mandatory to present a valid yellow fever vaccination card or a recognized health declaration certificate. Additionally, you must complete the online health declaration form prior to your arrival.
