New Immigration Rules You Must Know Before Travelling In, Out Of Nigeria

Nigerians planning to travel abroad or visitors intending to enter the country must familiarise themselves with new immigration rules that have transformed how people cross Nigeria’s borders. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has implemented comprehensive digital reforms that make previous travel procedures obsolete.

According to travel journalist Adachi Uchenchu’s recent documentary produced in collaboration with NIS, these changes represent Nigeria’s boldest move toward digitising border control while enhancing security measures at international airports nationwide.

End of Visa-on-Arrival Era

The most significant change affects international visitors. Nigeria officially discontinued its visa-on-arrival policy on May 1, 2025, transitioning to a mandatory e-visa system for travellers from over 170 countries. Only ECOWAS citizens remain exempted from this requirement.

This digital-first approach means visitors must secure their e-visa approval before departing their home countries. The application process typically takes 24 to 48 hours, though immigration officials recommend applying one week before travel to avoid complications.

Airlines now face strict penalties for boarding passengers without approved e-visas. The “no e-visa, no boarding” policy has become non-negotiable, with carriers risking substantial fines for violations. Travellers must print their e-visa confirmation and present it alongside their passport during check-in and arrival procedures.

Digital Landing and Exit Cards Replace Manual Forms

Nigeria has eliminated traditional paper-based landing and exit cards, replacing them with mandatory digital forms that travellers must complete within 96 hours before their journey. This digital check-in and check-out system applies to both arrivals and departures.

The automated system allows immigration officers to access passenger details instantly, identifying potential security concerns before travellers reach the immigration desk. This streamlined process reduces waiting times, minimises paperwork, and accelerates the overall immigration experience.

Immigration officials emphasise that these digital forms are separate from e-visas. While e-visas grant entry permission, landing cards capture specific travel details including flight information, accommodation addresses, and visit purposes. Both documents are mandatory for entry into Nigeria.

Travellers who input incorrect passport numbers or birth dates will have their cards automatically invalidated, potentially causing boarding delays or refusals. Immigration services recommend saving digital copies on mobile devices as backup.

RELATED: US Issues Final Warning to Nigerians: Overstay Your Visa, Face Lifetime Ban

Enhanced Biometric Security Measures

All arriving passengers now undergo comprehensive biometric screening at immigration checkpoints. The system captures fingerprint scans and facial recognition data to verify traveller identities against international security databases.

These enhanced security protocols are designed to strengthen border protection while improving the overall travel experience for legitimate visitors and returning Nigerians.

Support for Expired Nigerian Passports

Nigerian citizens travelling with expired passports can now apply for special landing ID cards through the official NIS portal. This emergency provision helps stranded Nigerians return home while their passport renewal applications are processed.

To access this service, travellers must navigate to the immigration website’s landing card section and scroll to the bottom right corner, where they’ll find the “Issues with travelling back to Nigeria with expired passport” option. The application must be submitted at least four days before departure, with confirmation documents printed for airport presentation.

Upon arrival in Nigeria, citizens with expired passports should immediately schedule passport renewal appointments at immigration offices nationwide. The renewal process has been streamlined with advance booking options to accommodate various travel schedules.

Exit Card Requirements for Complicated Departures

Visitors or expatriates experiencing visa complications or other travel difficulties when leaving Nigeria must apply for exit cards through a similar digital process. The system provides a pathway for resolving departure issues before reaching the airport.

This exit card system works independently of standard departure procedures, specifically addressing travellers facing administrative challenges that could prevent their departure from Nigeria.

Stricter Overstay Penalties

Beginning August 1, 2025, Nigeria will implement harsh penalties for visa overstayers. The new regime imposes daily fines of $15 for each day beyond the authorised stay period.

More severe consequences await long-term violators: visitors who overstay by six months face a five-year entry ban, while those exceeding one year receive permanent exclusion from Nigeria. Currently, a grace period remains in effect until the August 1 deadline, giving overstayers time to regularise their status.

Health Documentation Requirements

Travellers arriving from yellow fever endemic regions must present valid vaccination certificates or recognised health declaration documents. Additionally, all passengers must complete online health declaration forms before arrival in Nigeria.

These health requirements align with international travel safety standards and help protect public health within Nigeria’s borders.

Implementation and Compliance

The Nigeria Immigration Service emphasises that these changes reflect the country’s commitment to modernising border control while maintaining security standards. The digital transformation aims to reduce corruption opportunities, improve data accuracy, and enhance the overall travel experience.

All procedures are accessible through the official NIS portal, where travellers can access landing cards, exit cards, and emergency travel documents. Immigration officials stress the importance of using only official government platforms to avoid fraudulent services.

The comprehensive reforms position Nigeria among countries embracing technology-driven immigration systems, promising more efficient border crossings while maintaining robust security measures for all travellers.