The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced that beginning September 1, 2025, all foreign nationals who overstay their visas will be fined $15 for each extra day spent in the country beyond their authorised stay.
The policy, disclosed in a statement signed by the NIS spokesperson, AS Akinlabi, is part of ongoing reforms under Nigeria’s updated 2025 visa framework. It follows the nationwide implementation of a digital e-Visa system and the introduction of automated landing and exit cards that took effect on May 1.
According to the NIS, stricter penalties will apply to long-term violations. Overstaying by three months or more will attract a five-year entry ban in addition to the daily fine, while overstays of one year or longer will result in blacklisting and a permanent ban from re-entering Nigeria.
To track compliance, overstay monitoring will begin from August 2, one month ahead of the penalty enforcement date. The agency also announced a three-month amnesty period, effective May 1 to August 1, allowing foreigners with expired visas to leave the country voluntarily without facing fines or other sanctions.
In a bid to enhance transparency and ease of access, the NIS also confirmed that the Visa on Arrival policy has been scrapped. In its place, 13 new categories of Short Visit Visas (SVVs) have been introduced, with the entire application process now moved online. Applicants are expected to receive QR-coded e-visa approvals within 48 hours.
Additionally, inbound and outbound passengers must now complete digital landing and exit cards through the NIS portal. Non-Nigerian inbound travelers must fill out the landing card prior to boarding, while all departing passengers must submit exit cards before leaving the country.
The NIS emphasized that the new measures are designed to strengthen border control and align Nigeria’s immigration system with global standards. Stakeholders have been urged to comply with the revised guidelines and ensure all necessary procedures are followed to avoid sanctions.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains committed to a secure, digital, and efficient immigration process that supports economic development and national security,” the statement concluded.
