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Nigeria Visa Classess
Short Stay Visa
Temporary Residence Visa
Permanent Residence Visas
Short Visit Visas allow travellers to visit Nigeria for a period not exceeding three months (90 days) for the purpose of visit, tourism, business meeting, conference, seminar, contract negotiation, marketing, sales, purchase, distribution of Nigerian goods, Trade Fairs, job interview, sports, entertainment, study tour, academic exchange programme, humanitarian services, relief/emergency works, and temporary work permits. However, all short visit visa available on e-Visa Classes are not extendable.
Temporary Residence Visas allow individuals reside in Nigeria for a period not exceeding two years (2 years), subject to renewal, for the purpose of employment, establishment, schooling, internship, accompanying employed migrants or students or diplomats as dependants.
Permanent Residence Visas permit certain class of individuals to obtain permanent residence status in Nigeria. These individuals include Spouses of Nigerian citizens, Nigerians by birth who renounced Nigerian citizenship, and their spouses; as well as investors who import an annual minimum threshold of capital as may be specified, highly skilled individuals as well as some categories of retirees
SHORT STAY VISAS
Short Stay Visa (Embassy)
Diplomatic Visa (Non-accredited)
Issued to non-accredited diplomats entering Nigeria for official business on a short-term basis. Applicants must hold a valid diplomatic or official passport with a supporting note from their country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It allows a stay of up to 90 days and permits attendance at meetings, conferences, and seminars, without the option to work or extend beyond this period.
Transit Without Visa
Issued to travelers strictly transiting through Nigerian airports within 48 hours, without leaving the terminal. It requires an onward ticket and does not allow entry into Nigeria. No formal visa is issued, and extension or family applications are not permitted under this category.
Visiting Visa - Multiple Entry
Granted based on reciprocity to visitors wanting multiple social visits to Nigeria, typically valid for up to five years. Each visit can last up to 180 days. Requirements include an invitation letter, proof of host’s immigration status, bank statements, and return flight details. It disallows any form of employment and cannot be extended beyond stated limits.
Journalist Visa
Enables journalists or media practitioners to engage in official reporting or media coverage in Nigeria. Requires clearance from relevant bodies such as the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, plus a valid passport, hotel booking, and return ticket. It allows up to 90 days’ stay but no general employment. Renewal is possible under specific conditions.
Cleric Visa
Visa for Religious officials traveling to Nigeria to conduct or participate in religious services, seminars, or conferences. Valid for up to 90 days, with a maximum stay of 30 days once admitted. Applicants need an invitation letter from a Nigerian religious institution, proof of funds, and a return ticket. It excludes any form of employment.
Medical Tourism Visa
Issued to individuals seeking medical treatment in Nigeria or those accompanying a patient. It allows entry for up to 90 days and a stay that can extend to 180 days if needed for ongoing treatment. Applicants must provide hospital referral letters, proof of sufficient funds, and accommodation details. Employment is not permitted under this visa.
Religious Tourism Visa
For followers of a religion or faith traveling to Nigeria to attend religious activities or pilgrimages. Valid for up to 30 days on a single entry, with no extension possible. Applicants need a covering letter from a religious body, travel bookings, accommodation confirmation, and proof of funds. It excludes any form of employment.
Humanitarian Services Visa
Grants single-entry access (up to 30 days) to humanitarian workers aiding in charitable projects. Applicants must provide an MOU or clearance from the National Planning Commission, a valid passport, and proof of return travel. While a case-by-case extension is sometimes possible, no employment beyond humanitarian service is allowed.
Staff of INGO Visa
Single-entry, up to 90-day visa for short-term international NGO activities. Applicants need an invitation letter from the INGO in Nigeria, an existing MOU with the government, and proof of travel and lodging. The visa is for humanitarian or development work only, generally without employment privileges, and may be extendable under certain conditions.
Staff of NGO Visa
Intended for NGO personnel (non-international) on short visits, valid for up to 30 days. Applicants require an invitation letter from the hosting NGO, proof of funds, and travel plans. This visa prohibits employment in the private sector or beyond the NGO’s scope and typically isn’t extendable after its initial period.
e-Visa (Online)
Transit Visa
Grants brief entry (one to seven days) to travelers who must exit Nigeria onward to another destination. Applicants need a valid passport, onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds, and, where applicable, a visa for the final destination. It enables short transit-related activities only, with no allowance for employment or stays beyond seven days
Business - Single Entry Visa
Allows a 30-day stay for business-related activities such as meetings, conferences, contract negotiations, trade fairs, and job interviews. Applicants need a valid passport, invitation letter from a Nigerian company (with CAC certificate), proof of accommodation, and a return ticket. This visa is single-entry, non-extendable, and doesn’t permit direct employment in Nigeria.
Business - Frequently Travelled Business Executives
Caters to high-profile business travelers who invest at least USD 250,000 in Nigeria. It is valid for one year with multiple entries, each stay capped at 30 days. Requirements include proof of investment from a recognized agency, an invitation letter, CAC documentation for the host company, and confirmed travel. Employment is not permitted.
Tourism Visa
A single-entry, 30-day visa for tourism and sightseeing in Nigeria. Applicants must have a valid passport, return ticket, evidence of accommodation and bank statement to show sufficient funds. It is strictly for leisure and does not allow work or extensions. Minors also need parental consent documents.
Sports Visa
Grants short-term entry (maximum 30 days) to athletes, officials, and organized supporter groups participating in sports events. Applicants must produce a letter of invitation outlining the event, endorsement by relevant sports authorities, and proof of funds. It doesn’t permit employment and cannot be extended beyond the specified duration.
Creative Arts Visa
Permits entry for performers, artists, musicians, and entertainers to showcase their talents in Nigeria for up to 30 days. Requires an invitation letter from the event organizer, proof of funds, return ticket, and any necessary endorsements from cultural bodies. It prohibits employment outside the specific performance or creative activity.
Study Tour Visa
Issued to students, scholars, or course participants coming to Nigeria for a short academic study tour, usually up to 30 days. Applicants must provide proof of enrollment or invitation from an approved Nigerian institution, evidence of funds, and a return ticket. Employment is not authorized, and the visa cannot be extended.
Academic Exchange Programme (Student, scholar, Lecturer) Visa
Issued for educational exchange visits involving students, lecturers, or researchers under formal agreements (e.g., MOUs). Valid for up to 90 days on a single entry. Applicants must show letters of invitation and acceptance from Nigerian institutions, academic credentials, and funds. It is strictly for academic activities and excludes employment.
International Cultural Exchange Visa
Single-entry, 30-day visa for participants in cultural exchanges facilitated by a Memorandum of Understanding between Nigeria and another country. Requires a valid passport, proof of accommodation, funds, and official documentation of the cultural exchange. No employment is allowed, and the visa does not support extension beyond the initial period.
Emergency/Relief Work Visa
Issued to emergency or relief personnel for urgent assistance missions. Valid for 30 days, it requires a letter from a relevant government agency or NGO, a return ticket, and proof of accommodation. The visa strictly covers relief efforts, excludes paid employment, and can sometimes be extended depending on the situation.
Returning holders of Foreign Passports who are Nigerians by Birth
For individuals born Nigerian but traveling on another nationality’s passport. This short-visit visa lets them enter for up to 30 days for social or business reasons, provided they show evidence of Nigerian heritage. It cannot be used for paid work, and documentation of Nigerian parentage or birth is essential.
Visiting Visa - Single Entry
Issued for a 30-day social visit to family or friends in Nigeria. Applicants need an invitation letter from their host, the host’s Nigerian passport or residency permit, proof of funds, and a valid return ticket. This visa is single-entry, cannot be extended, and prohibits employment. Minors must show birth certificates and parental consent.
Business- Multiple Entry Visa
Offered on a reciprocal basis to nationals of countries that grant Nigerians similar privileges. Valid for short business trips (up to 30 days per visit) and requires proof of return travel, an invitation letter, and the host company’s CAC certificate. While multiple entries are allowed, each individual stay is limited to 30 days; no employment is permitted.
TEMPORARY RESIDENCE VISAS
Temporary Work Permit Visa (90 days)
Known as TWP, it permits experts to provide specialized skills—such as installation, maintenance, or training—for up to 90 days. Pre-approval from the Comptroller General of Immigration (via a Visa Authority Letter) is mandatory. Holders cannot engage in regular employment or stay beyond the specified short term. Extensions may be considered under certain circumstances.
Temporary Work Permit Visa (6 months)
A multiple-entry TWP option lasting up to six months, non-renewable. It’s meant for specialists performing tasks like equipment installations or audits over a longer span than the standard TWP. Applicants need a pre-approval letter from the Comptroller General of Immigration. Employment beyond the authorized project is disallowed.
Accredited Diplomat Visa
Given to diplomats officially assigned to Nigeria, allowing them to fulfill diplomatic duties for up to two years (renewable). Requires a valid diplomatic passport and a letter from Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The visa grants privileges consistent with diplomatic status; no additional employment is needed or allowed outside those duties.
Employment (Expatriate) Visa
Used by foreign nationals hired under an approved Expatriate Quota. Valid for an initial 90-day entry, then a residence/work permit is typically granted for two years (renewable). Applicants need an employment letter, quota approval, and relevant credentials. The visa allows formal employment but excludes unauthorized outside work.
Employment (Expatriate Free Zone) Visa
For foreign nationals employed within a Nigerian Free Zone. Similar to the standard employment visa but linked to Free Zone regulations. Requires an employment contract, clearance from the Free Zone authority, and supporting documents. Valid for two years (renewable), allowing work exclusively in the Free Zone.
Employment - Expatriate (Government Official) Visa
Enables expatriates to work directly for the Nigerian government. The employing government agency must provide an offer letter and accept Immigration Responsibility (IR). This visa grants an initial 90-day entry followed by a two-year renewable residence permit. Outside employment is not permitted.
Employment (INGO) Visa
For foreign workers employed by International Non-Governmental Organizations in Nigeria. Requires an employment contract, an MOU with the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, and possibly security clearances. Valid for two years (renewable) and confines the holder to INGO duties.
Employment (Cleric) Visa
Applies to foreign clerics taking up long-term religious employment. Needs pre-approval (Visa Authority Letter) and is valid for two years, renewable. It covers activities like preaching and administering religious services but not outside secular employment.
Student Visa
Issued to individuals who seek to pursue full-time studies at approved Nigerian educational institutions. Applicants must provide an official admission letter, proof of financial support, valid medical insurance (where applicable), and evidence of accommodation. The visa is commonly valid for the duration of the academic program (e.g., one year at a time, renewable), allowing only educational activities. Students are prohibited from taking paid employment unless specifically authorized under internship provisions or work-study arrangements recognized by the institution and relevant government agencies. Renewals typically depend on continued enrollment and satisfactory academic progress.
Academic Exchange Programme (AEP) Visa
Issued for educational exchange visits involving students, lecturers, or researchers under formal agreements (e.g., MOUs). Valid for up to 90 days on a single entry. Applicants must show letters of invitation and acceptance from Nigerian institutions, academic credentials, and funds. It is strictly for academic activities and excludes employment.
Interns Visa
Allows foreign nationals to undertake internships or practical training with a recognized Nigerian organization or institution. Applicants generally need a formal internship offer or training agreement, proof of sufficient funds, accommodation details, and an acceptance of Immigration Responsibility by the host. Validity can range from a few months up to one year, depending on the program’s length, with possible renewal options. Interns may engage only in assigned training activities and cannot perform paid work outside the internship’s scope. Employment beyond the internship requires a separate permit.
PERMANENT RESIDENCE VISA
Spouse of Nigerian Citizens Visa
For foreign nationals legally married to Nigerian citizens. It grants the right to reside in Nigeria as the spouse of a Nigerian. Applicants must show a valid marriage certificate, proof of Nigerian citizenship for the sponsoring spouse, and documents confirming the relationship’s authenticity. Employment may be allowed if properly authorized, though terms vary by regulation. The visa often leads to longer-term residence or other pathways, subject to Nigerian immigration guidelines.
Nigerian by Birth who Renounced Nigerian Citizenship Visa
Applies to individuals born Nigerian under the law but who have formally renounced Nigerian citizenship. It provides temporary entry privileges for personal, business, or family reasons. Applicants must provide proof of former Nigerian status (e.g., birth certificate), official renunciation documents, and a valid passport from their current nationality. The visa generally limits any form of employment unless authorized by separate permits, and stays are often time-bound.
Investors Visa (Small Enterprise)
For foreign investors establishing or expanding a small-scale business in Nigeria. Applicants typically must prove a minimum capital threshold (as defined by local regulations), provide a solid business plan, and show financial capacity. It grants residence rights associated with running or managing the enterprise, with renewal based on continued compliance and evidence of active business operations. Employment is limited to running the venture, unless otherwise endorsed.
Investors Visa (Medium Enterprise)
Designed for medium-scale investors seeking to operate or manage Nigerian businesses of moderate size. Applicants must show higher capital investment or turnover levels than N3A, along with relevant company registrations and a viable business plan. Proof of funds and a demonstrated intent to contribute to Nigeria’s economy are essential. Holders can reside in Nigeria to oversee daily operations, subject to periodic checks and renewals.
Investors Visa (Large Corporations)
Targets substantial foreign investors who own or manage large-scale businesses in Nigeria. Applicants must satisfy significant capital or asset requirements, verified by corporate registration and audited financial statements. The visa provides residency for key executives to run daily affairs, hire staff, and coordinate expansion. Renewal depends on compliance with Nigerian corporate laws, tax regulations, and continued investment. Employment privileges are tied to managing the enterprise itself.
Investors Visa (Ultra Large Corporations)
Reserved for investors leading major multinational or ultra-large corporations with major footprints in Nigeria. Applicants must meet the highest thresholds of capital, assets, or turnover, showcasing capacity to influence significant economic growth. Required documents typically include global corporate registrations, audited statements, and government endorsements. Holders gain multi-year residency to oversee strategic operations. Renewals hinge on sustained investment, corporate social responsibility, and adherence to local laws.
Investors Visa (Oil/Gas/Power Sector)
Specialized investor visa for significant ventures in Nigeria’s oil, gas, or power sectors. Applicants must demonstrate technical expertise, substantial capital, and relevant industry licenses or partnerships. This visa allows direct involvement in energy-related projects, potentially with added scrutiny by sector regulators. Residency is granted to key management for operations, expansions, and strategic direction. Renewals depend on ongoing compliance with environmental regulations, local content laws, and investment commitments.
Highly Skilled Immigrant Visa
Issued to professionals with specialized skills or advanced qualifications in fields vital to Nigeria’s development. Applicants must present proof of exceptional training, certifications, or achievements and often require a sponsoring employer or governmental endorsement. This visa enables extended residence for those contributing expertise in sectors like technology, healthcare, engineering, or academia. Employment is permitted under the sponsoring arrangement, subject to compliance with local labor and immigration rules.
Retirement Visa (Retired in Nigeria)
Caters to individuals already residing and retiring in Nigeria, possibly after holding other visa categories. Applicants must show proof of stable retirement income (pensions, investments) and local accommodation. The visa allows long-term residency without formal employment. Renewals may require updated financial statements and medical insurance coverage. It is designed for those wishing to permanently settle and enjoy retirement in Nigeria.
Retirement Visa (Retiree from abroad)
For foreign retirees wishing to relocate to Nigeria from overseas. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources (like pensions, annuities, or savings) and secure local accommodation. Health insurance coverage is strongly recommended. It permits an extended stay or residence, allowing retirees to live in Nigeria without engaging in paid work. Renewal typically depends on continued proof of income stability and adherence to all Nigerian immigration regulations.
