European Visa Guide for Nigerian Passport 2026
Understanding Schengen visas, UK visas, and the limited visa-free options in Europe for Nigerian citizens
Schengen Visa (29 Countries, 1 Visa)
The Schengen visa is the most valuable European visa for Nigerians. One visa grants access to all 29 Schengen Area countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Schengen Countries (29)
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
| Fee | EUR 80 (adults), EUR 40 (children 6-12) |
| Processing | 15-45 calendar days |
| Stay | Up to 90 days per 180-day period |
| Apply at | Embassy of main destination country |
For detailed application guidance, see our Schengen Visa Guide for Nigerians.
United Kingdom
The UK is not part of the Schengen Area and requires a separate visa. The UK is one of the most popular European destinations for Nigerians.
| Standard Visitor Visa | GBP 115 (up to 6 months) |
| Long-term Visit Visa | GBP 432 (2 years), GBP 771 (5 years), GBP 963 (10 years) |
| Processing | 3-6 weeks (standard), 5 days (priority, extra fee) |
| Biometrics | Required at TLScontact visa centre |
For detailed guidance, see our UK Visa Guide for Nigerians.
Ireland
Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area and requires its own visa. However, holders of a valid UK visa can visit Ireland under the British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) (currently limited; check latest status).
| Short Stay (C) Visa | EUR 60 (single entry), EUR 100 (multi entry) |
| Processing | 8-12 weeks |
E-Visa Options
Some European and nearby countries offer e-visa or simplified applications:
| Country | Stay | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turkey | 30 days | $50 | e-Visa at evisa.gov.tr (straddles Europe/Asia) |
| Georgia | 30 days | $20 | e-Visa (technically Europe/Asia border) |
| Azerbaijan | 30 days | $26 | ASAN e-visa |
| Moldova | 90 days | e-Visa required | Check latest requirements |
| Russia | 16 days | $40 | e-Visa for specific entry points |
Tips for Getting European Visas
- Apply early: Start the visa process at least 2-3 months before travel
- Strong documentation: Show strong ties to Nigeria (employment, property, family) to demonstrate you will return
- Financial evidence: 3-6 months of bank statements showing consistent income and sufficient funds
- Travel history: Previous international travel (especially to visa-free countries) strengthens your application
- Schengen first: A Schengen visa is often the best starting point - it opens 29 countries with one visa
- Multiple-entry: If you travel frequently, request a multiple-entry Schengen visa for 1-5 years
- Avoid December rush: Apply well before the December holiday season when demand peaks
FAQ
Key Point
No visa-free European access for Nigerian passports. All destinations require advance visa. The Schengen visa (EUR 80) covers 29 countries and is the best value.