Important Update: Nigeria Implements Visa Overstay Penalties & Amnesty Period Ends July 31, 2025
- visa code
- Jul 14
- 2 min read
Effective May 1, 2025, Nigeria's Interior Ministry has introduced new immigration reforms aimed at managing visa compliance. Foreign nationals in Nigeria including U.S. citizens should take note of the following:
Key Information for Visitors and Expats in Nigeria
Amnesty Period (Until July 31, 2025)
Foreign nationals with expired visas or residence permits may regularize their status without penalty during this period.
The amnesty is intended to encourage compliance without the burden of fines or penalties.
Overstay Penalty (Effective August 1, 2025)
A $15 daily surcharge will apply for each day of overstay starting August 1, 2025.
Overstays of 6 months or more will result in a 5-year re-entry ban.
Overstays of 1 year or more will result in a 10-year re-entry ban.
Online Portal for Regularization
Nigeria has launched a new digital platform (link) allowing individuals with:
Expired visa-on-arrival permits
Lapsed single-entry visas
Overdue expatriate residence cards
to regularize their status without visiting immigration offices.
Recommendations for U.S. Citizens:
If your visa or permit has expired, take immediate action to regularize your status before July 31, 2025.
Use the official Nigeria Immigration Service portal to begin your application online.
Keep digital and physical copies of all submissions and approvals for your records.
For assistance, contact:
U.S. Embassy Abuja, Nigeria
Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive, Central District Area+234 209 461 4328 and after hours +234 209 461 4000, press zero
https://ng.usembassy.gov/
U.S. Consulate General Lagos
2 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island+234 201 460 3400 during business hours and after hours
State Department – Consular Affairs+1 888-407-4747 or +1 202-501-4444
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates.
More details can be found here