Nigerian Visa Services & Requirements (2026)
Nigerian embassies and consulates process visa applications for foreign nationals wishing to visit Nigeria. Since 2024, most visa applications are handled through the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) e-Visa system, though embassy submissions remain available.
Visa Types Available
| Visa Type | Purpose | Duration | Fee (NGN) | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (TVA) | Tourism, visiting family/friends, medical treatment | Up to 90 days | 36,000 NGN | $25 |
| Business Visa (BVA) | Business meetings, conferences, negotiations | Up to 90 days | 57,000 NGN | $40 |
| Transit Visa (TVR) | Passing through Nigeria | Up to 48 hours | 15,000 NGN | $10 |
| Subject to Regularization (STR) | Employment (requires CERPAC after arrival) | 90 days | 118,000 NGN | $80 |
| Temporary Work Permit (TWP) | Specific project-based assignments | Varies by project | 118,000 NGN | $80 |
| Diplomatic/Official | Government or international organization business | Duration of assignment | Gratis | Free |
Fees are approximate and vary by nationality. Some countries have reciprocal fee arrangements.
Required Documents (All Visa Types)
Standard Requirements
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, 2 blank pages)
- Completed visa application form (online or at embassy)
- Recent passport photographs (white background, 35x45mm)
- Proof of return or onward travel (flight booking)
- Proof of accommodation in Nigeria (hotel booking or host letter)
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, last 3 months)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory for all travellers)
Additional by Visa Type
- Business: Invitation letter from Nigerian company on letterhead, employer cover letter
- STR: Expatriate quota approval, employment contract, company CAC registration
- TWP: Project documentation, employer letter, project timeline
- Student: Admission letter from Nigerian institution, proof of tuition payment
- Transit: Confirmed onward ticket, visa for destination country (if required)
How to Apply via the e-Visa Portal
- Visit the NIS e-Visa portal and create an account
- Select your visa type and fill in the application form
- Upload required documents — passport bio page, photograph, return ticket, accommodation proof, bank statements, invitation letter (if applicable)
- Pay the visa fee online via credit/debit card
- Wait for processing — typically 24-48 hours for tourist/business visas
- Receive approval — download and print your e-Visa
- Present at entry — show your printed e-Visa and passport at the Nigerian port of entry for stamping
Visa-Free & Visa-on-Arrival Countries
Visa-Free Entry (ECOWAS Citizens)
Citizens of ECOWAS member states can enter Nigeria without a visa for up to 90 days. ECOWAS countries include: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Cote d'Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
Visa on Arrival
Nigeria offers visa on arrival to citizens of all African Union member states and several other countries. The visa on arrival costs $20-50 USD and is valid for up to 30 days. You must apply in advance through the NIS portal and receive approval before travelling.
Countries Requiring Full Visa
Citizens of most non-African countries require a full visa obtained in advance through the e-Visa portal or at a Nigerian embassy. Processing typically takes 5-10 working days at an embassy.
Common Reasons for Visa Refusal
- Incomplete application or missing documents
- Insufficient funds in bank statements
- No proof of accommodation or return travel
- Expired passport or insufficient blank pages
- Missing yellow fever vaccination certificate
- Purpose of visit does not match visa type applied for
- Previous immigration violations or overstay
Tip: Ensure all documents are complete and consistent before applying. If refused, you can reapply after addressing the reasons for refusal.
Visa Extension & CERPAC
If you need to stay beyond your visa validity:
- Tourist/Business visa extension: Apply at any Nigeria Immigration Service office before your visa expires. Extensions of up to 90 additional days may be granted.
- CERPAC (Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card): Required for all expatriates on STR visas. Apply within 90 days of arrival. Valid for 1-2 years and renewable. Costs approximately 200,000-400,000 NGN ($140-$275 USD).
- Overstay penalties: Overstaying your visa attracts fines and possible deportation. Always extend before expiry.
Yellow Fever
A valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for all travellers entering Nigeria, regardless of nationality or visa type.
Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel. The certificate is valid for life under current WHO guidelines.