Nigeria new visa policy

Nigeria has introduced a new visa policy, which aims to simplify and streamline the visa application process for foreign nationals. The new policy, which came into effect on August 1, 2021, introduces several changes and improvements to the previous visa regime. Here are some key features of the new visa policy:

Types of Visas:

  1. Visa on Arrival (VOA): This type of visa is available to citizens of 12 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the European Union. VOA allows visitors to obtain a visa upon arrival in Nigeria, eliminating the need for prior application.
  2. Electronic Visa (e-Visa): This type of visa is available to citizens of 44 countries, including China, India, and Brazil. e-Visa is an online application process that allows visitors to apply for a visa from the comfort of their own homes.
  3. Regular Visa: This type of visa is available to citizens of all countries not listed above. Regular visa applications must be submitted in person at a Nigerian embassy or consulate.

Visa Requirements:

  1. Passport Validity: The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Nigeria.
  2. Travel Documents: Visitors must provide a valid travel document, such as a passport, travel certificate, or national ID card.
  3. Visa Application Form: The application form must be completed online and printed, or obtained from a Nigerian embassy or consulate.
  4. Biometric Data: Visitors may be required to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints, as part of the application process.
  5. Visa Fee: The visa fee varies depending on the type of visa and the applicant's country of origin.

Visa Processing Time:

  1. e-Visa: The processing time for e-Visa applications is typically 3-5 working days.
  2. Regular Visa: The processing time for regular visa applications is typically 7-10 working days.

Visa-Free Countries:

  1. ECOWAS Countries: Citizens of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) countries do not need a visa to enter Nigeria.
  2. Other Countries: Citizens of other countries may be eligible for visa-free entry into Nigeria, depending on the terms of their country's bilateral agreement with Nigeria.

Benefits of the New Visa Policy:

  1. Simplified Application Process: The new visa policy aims to simplify the application process, making it easier for foreign nationals to obtain a visa.
  2. Increased Efficiency: The policy aims to reduce the processing time for visa applications, making it faster for visitors to obtain a visa.
  3. Improved Security: The policy includes enhanced security measures, such as biometric data collection, to ensure the safety and security of visitors to Nigeria.

Overall, the new visa policy aims to promote tourism, trade, and investment in Nigeria, while also improving the country's reputation as a welcoming and secure destination for foreign visitors.