The Nigerian government has officially begun enforcing its new electronic visa (e-visa) policy, effective from Thursday, May 1, 2025.
The initiative marks a significant shift in the country’s immigration process, emphasizing digitalization and stricter compliance measures.
According to a statement by Akinsola Akinlabi, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the launch includes two major digital innovations: a fully online e-visa application platform and a new automated landing and exit card system.
Akinlabi, who serves as Deputy Controller of Immigration, explained that these advancements are part of broader immigration reforms tied to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at boosting foreign investment and strengthening border security.
“Following the 2024 review of Nigeria’s visa guidelines, the revised 2025 policy introduces a secure, entirely online e-visa system,” he stated. “Applications will be processed within 48 hours or less.”
He added that the updated system covers 13 categories under the Short Visit Visa (SVV), with full details available at https://evisa.immigration.gov.ng/. Once approved, applicants will receive their visas and QR codes directly through email.
As part of the reform, the traditional Visa on Arrival has been abolished, and all visa applications must now be completed through the online platform.
Additionally, visas issued via the e-visa system will not be eligible for extensions.
Akinlabi also emphasized that beginning August 2, 2025, foreign nationals who overstay their visas will face penalties. “Overstayers will be held accountable under the new provisions,” he noted.
The manual entry and exit forms previously used at Nigerian borders have been replaced with a digital alternative, accessible at https://lecard.immigration.gov.ng/.
These automated cards will now be mandatory for all travellers entering and exiting Nigeria.
However, Akinlabi announced a grace period between May 1 and August 1, 2025, during which foreigners currently residing in Nigeria with expired visas are encouraged to voluntarily leave the country without facing any penalties.