Nigeria has introduced a visa amnesty program for foreigners residing in the country with expired immigration documents.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) announced the initiative, giving affected individuals until September 30, 2025 to regularize their status without facing penalties.
Comptroller General Kemi Nandap revealed the program during a press briefing in Abuja, calling it a “humanitarian opportunity” for those who overstayed visas or have lapsed permits.
“This is a limited-time chance to correct immigration statuses lawfully,” she emphasized.
The amnesty covers various categories of foreign nationals, including:
- Workers with expired permits
- Students whose visas lapsed
- Investors needing documentation updates
Applicants must submit required documents at designated centers nationwide and pay standard processing fees, though penalty charges will be waived.
The NIS has established special desks at major offices to handle anticipated high demand.
Immigration experts note the amnesty could help regularize thousands of foreign workers, particularly in sectors like construction, education, and healthcare.
However, they caution that applicants must meet all other visa requirements.
The NIS warns that enforcement will intensify after the September deadline, with stricter penalties for non-compliance.
The service is simultaneously upgrading its digital systems to improve future immigration processing.
This temporary regularization window offers a solution for many foreigners caught in administrative limbo while reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to orderly immigration management.
