NIGERIA AIRPORTS' NEW IMMIGRATION RULES: E-VISA, EXPIRED PASSPORT, LANDING & EXIT CARD, E-GATE...

Summary

Starting May 2025, Nigeria has completely digitized its immigration and travel procedures, making it more secure and efficient. The visa on arrival policy is now replaced by an e-visa system for over 170 countries. Travelers must complete digital landing and exit cards within 96 hours of travel, ensuring smoother immigration. Special provisions are in place for Nigerians with expired passports. Strict penalties are introduced for overstays, and health declarations are required for certain travelers. This digital overhaul promises a faster, more secure experience for all travelers to and from Nigeria.

Takeaways

• 😀 Nigeria has transitioned to an e-visa only system for travelers from over 170 countries as of May 1st, 2025. Only ECOWAS citizens are exempt.
• 😀 The visa on arrival policy has been discontinued, and travelers must apply for their e-visa before departure. Airlines face penalties for boarding passengers without it.
• 😀 The e-visa application process is fast, typically processed within 24 to 48 hours, but travelers should apply at least one week in advance to avoid delays.
• 😀 Upon arrival in Nigeria, travelers will undergo biometric screening, including fingerprint scans and facial recognition for enhanced security.
• 😀 Manual landing and exit cards have been replaced with digital forms, which must be completed online within 96 hours before travel.
• 😀 The digital landing and exit card system reduces delays and enhances security by capturing travel details in advance, allowing for a faster immigration process.
• 😀 The landing and exit cards are two distinct documents: the e-visa allows entry, while the landing and exit cards track travel details and must be submitted before arrival and departure.
• 😀 If the wrong passport number or details are entered in the digital forms, they become invalid, potentially leading to travel delays or denied entry.
• 😀 Nigerian citizens with expired passports can apply for a special landing card ID to facilitate entry, and passport renewals are now more streamlined within Nigeria.
• 😀 Visitors or expatriates with visa issues can apply for an exit card ID to assist with leaving Nigeria. Overstaying visas will incur fines starting August 1st, 2025.
• 😀 Travelers from yellow fever or other health-risk countries must provide a valid yellow fever vaccination card or health declaration and complete an online health form before arrival.

Q & A

What is the major change in Nigeria's visa policy starting May 2025?

Nigeria has discontinued the visa on arrival policy and fully transitioned to an e-visa system for travelers from over 170 countries. Only citizens of ECOWAS member states are exempt.

How long does it take to process the new e-visa for Nigeria?

The e-visa is processed within 24 to 48 hours. However, it is recommended to apply at least one week before your trip to account for any potential delays.

What should you do if you are traveling to Nigeria and do not have an e-visa?

Without an approved e-visa, you will not be allowed to board the flight to Nigeria, as airlines are prohibited from boarding passengers without the necessary visa.

What biometric processes are required when arriving in Nigeria?

Upon arrival, passengers will undergo biometric screening, including fingerprint scans and facial recognition, to confirm their identity and enhance security.

What is the new process for landing and exit cards in Nigeria?

Manual landing and exit cards have been replaced by mandatory digital forms. Travelers must complete these forms online within 96 hours before travel, and they are specific to each trip.

Who needs to fill out the digital landing and exit cards?

All passengers, including tourists, business visitors, ECOWAS citizens, and Nigerians traveling on a foreign passport, must complete the digital landing and exit cards.

Can I fill out the digital landing card more than 96 hours before my flight?

No, the system will not allow you to fill out the form earlier than 96 hours before your flight, so it is important to set a reminder to complete it within that window.

What happens if I enter incorrect details in the landing or exit card?

Entering incorrect details, such as an incorrect passport number, name, or date of birth, will make the card invalid. You will need to resubmit the form, or you may face delays or be denied entry or boarding.

What should Nigerian citizens do if they are returning home with an expired passport?

Nigerian citizens with an expired passport can apply for a special landing card ID through the official Nigeria Immigration Services portal. This allows them to travel to Nigeria while their passport is being renewed.

What are the penalties for overstaying a visa in Nigeria after August 1, 2025?

After August 1, 2025, penalties for overstaying a visa include a daily $15 fine, a 5-year entry ban for overstays of 6 months, and a permanent ban for overstays of one year or more.

Are there health requirements for travelers arriving in Nigeria from certain countries?

Yes, travelers arriving from yellow fever or other health-risk countries must present a valid yellow fever vaccination card or a recognized health declaration certificate. They must also complete an online health declaration form before arrival.