Nigeria’s New Visa Overstay Regulations: What You Need to Know
Nigeria is gearing up to introduce a significant change in its immigration policies, set to take effect on September 1, 2025. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced a daily fine of $15 for foreign nationals who overstay their visas. This reform aims to tighten immigration controls and ensure compliance with Nigerian visa regulations.
The Announcement
A. S. Akinlabi, the public relations officer of the NIS, made the announcement in a statement released on April 28, 2025. He highlighted that the new penalty system is part of broader reforms intended to streamline immigration processes and enhance compliance among foreign visitors.
Recent System Overhauls
This new fine follows the introduction of a digital e-visa system and the rollout of automated landing and exit cards, effective from May 1, 2025. Akinlabi elaborated on these developments by explaining the importance of modernizing the visa application process and reminding visitors of their responsibilities.
Detailed Penalty Structure
Under the revised guidelines, foreign visitors who remain in Nigeria beyond their authorized visa period will incur a daily fine of $15. The regulations include stringent punishments for overstays:
- Three months or more: A daily fine of $15, plus a five-year ban from re-entering Nigeria.
- One year or longer: A daily fine of $15, blacklisting, and a permanent entry ban.
These penalties emphasize the NIS’s commitment to maintaining orderly immigration practices.
Amnesty Period
In a noteworthy move, the NIS has introduced a three-month amnesty period from May 1 to August 1, 2025. During this window, foreigners with expired visas can voluntarily exit Nigeria without incurring fines or facing penalties. This measure aims to facilitate a smoother transition for visitors while they adapt to the new regulations.
Changes to Visa Types
The NIS has also discontinued the existing Visa on Arrival scheme, replacing it with 13 distinct categories of Short Visit Visas (SVVs). This transformation simplifies the application process, which now takes place exclusively online. E-visas are expected to be processed within 48 hours, with approved documents sent via email in QR-coded format.
Electronic Travel Protocols
As part of the new travel protocols, all travelers entering or exiting Nigeria must complete electronic landing and exit cards through the NIS website. Incoming foreign nationals are required to fill out the landing card before boarding their flights, while departing passengers must complete the exit card prior to leaving the country. This measure aims to enhance the tracking and management of foreign visitors.
Stakeholder Engagement
In light of these significant changes, the NIS urges all stakeholders and international visitors to adhere strictly to these updated policies. Akinlabi emphasized the NIS’s commitment to creating a transparent, efficient, and secure immigration system that aligns with global standards.
The Future of Nigeria’s Immigration Policy
With these reforms, Nigeria aims not only to improve its immigration processes but also to enhance the overall experience for foreign visitors. The combination of financial penalties for overstays, streamlined e-visa applications, and electronic landing and exit cards demonstrates a significant shift toward modernization in Nigerian immigration policy.
As these changes unfold, it’s essential for foreign nationals planning to visit Nigeria to stay informed and understand their obligations under the new system.
