FG introduces e-Visa System, Automated Landing, Exit Cards

The Federal Government has introduced e-Visa Application System and Automated Landing and Exit Card.

The introduction is a bid to reform its visa policy and improve internal control over the movement of foreigners, the Federal Ministry of Interior, in collaboration said these new systems will take effect from May 1, 2025.

The Nigeria Immigration Service has introduced an e-Visa system with enhanced security protocols, allowing applicants to submit their applications online and receive their visas electronically within 48 hours or less.

The system offers 13 visa types for short visits, and applicants can access the portal at (link unavailable). With the introduction of the e-Visa system, Visa on Arrival will be discontinued from May 1, 2025. However, existing Visa on Arrival issuances will remain valid until May 30, 2025.

To ensure compliance with visa regulations, the Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 introduces penalties for foreigners who overstay their visas. Starting September 1, 2025, individuals who overstay will be required to pay $15 per day.

Those who overstay for three months or more will face a $15 daily fine plus a five-year entry ban, while those who overstay for a year or more will be subject to a $15 daily fine and permanent entry ban.

In addition to the e-Visa system, the Nigeria Immigration Service has replaced the manual embarkation and disembarkation card with an electronic landing and exit card.

Inbound passengers, excluding Nigerians, are now required to complete the landing card online before boarding their flights. Outbound passengers must also complete the exit card online before departure. The electronic landing and exit card system can be accessed at (link unavailable).

To facilitate a smooth transition to the new system, the Nigeria Immigration Service has granted a three-month window period, from May 1 to August 1, 2025, allowing foreigners residing in Nigeria with expired visas to return to their home country voluntarily without penalty.

The Nigeria Immigration Service remains committed to implementing a more efficient, transparent, and secure immigration system that aligns with global best practices. All stakeholders are encouraged to ensure strict compliance with the new policies and timelines.