Africa
Nigeria immigration and visa guide
Nigeria offers the Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa, Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC), and Temporary Work Permits (TWP) in Lagos and Abuja.
Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) & Ministry of Interior
- Processing time
- 3 – 8 weeks
- Passport validity
- 6+ months
- Points-based system
- No
- Digital nomad friendly
- No
Visa options in Nigeria
Key requirements
- Valid Expatriate Quota approval granted by Federal Ministry of Interior to the sponsoring Nigerian company
- Employment offer letter and formal acceptance letter for the specific approved quota position
- Credentials, CV, and clean police character certificate from country of residence
How to apply for a Nigeria visa: step by step
- 1
Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa Abroad
Apply for STR Visa at Nigerian Embassy/Consulate with company Expatriate Quota letter.
2 - 4 weeks
- 2
Arrival in Nigeria & 90-Day Entry Stamp
Enter Nigeria on STR visa and initiate CERPAC regularization within 90 days of arrival.
Immediate on arrival
- 3
CERPAC Green Card Biometrics
Submit CERPAC form at NIS Headquarters in Abuja or state commands (e.g. Alagbon, Lagos) to receive CERPAC Green Card.
1 - 2 weeks
Official government links
Frequently asked questions
What is the CERPAC Green Card in Nigeria?
CERPAC stands for Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card. It is the mandatory biometric identity and residence document issued by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to expatriates working in Nigeria.
Find a licensed adviser
For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.
Look for a lawyer registered with the national bar association or law society in Nigeria. The official immigration website explains any rules on who may represent applicants.
Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) & Ministry of InteriorGeneral information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) & Ministry of Interior on the official website before applying.