Nigeria Immigration Service Begins Enforcement Against Visa Overstayers
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has commenced a nationwide enforcement operation targeting foreign nationals who have overstayed their visas or breached their entry conditions. This action follows the expiration of the Federal Government's Expired Visa Initiative (Amnesty), which provided a grace period for regularization of immigration status without penalties. The enforcement began on October 1, 2025.
Expiration of Visa Amnesty
The amnesty programme, which commenced on July 5, 2025, allowed foreign nationals with expired visas and residence permits to regularize their stay in Nigeria without facing penalties. The window for this regularization officially closed at midnight on September 30, 2025. The NIS announced that enforcement actions would begin immediately following the deadline.
Targeted Categories and Enforcement Measures
According to ACI Akinsola Akinlabi, the NIS Public Relations Officer, the enforcement exercise will specifically target several categories of foreign nationals. These include:
- Holders of expired Visa on Arrival (VoA).
- Holders of expired Single and Multiple-Entry Short Visit or Business Visas.
- Individuals with expired Comprehensive Expatriate Residence Permit and Automated Cards (CERPAC).
Foreign nationals found to be in violation of Nigeria's immigration laws will face sanctions. These sanctions include payment of overstay penalties, removal from the country, and possible restrictions on future entry into Nigeria.
Overstay Penalties and Entry Restrictions
The NIS has outlined specific penalties for visa overstays, based on the duration of the violation:
| Overstay Duration | Penalties |
|---|---|
| Less than 3 months | Removal, payment of $15 per day overstayed, or a 2-year entry ban. |
| 3 months to 1 year | Removal, payment of $15 per day, or a 5-year entry ban. |
| Over 1 year | Removal, and a 10-year or permanent entry ban. |
Immigration Service's Commitment
The Nigeria Immigration Service has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring lawful migration, safeguarding national security, and promoting transparency and efficiency across all immigration processes. The NIS aims to maintain a secure and predictable immigration system while protecting national interests.
Akinsola Akinlabi stated that the measures are aimed at ensuring lawful migration, safeguarding national security, and promoting transparency in Nigeria’s immigration system.
