Nigeria Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Suitable for business meetings, conferences, and site visits
- Options for Single Entry or Multiple Entry available
- Online application and payment system for most nationalities
- Requires a formal invitation from a registered Nigerian entity
- Mandatory biometric data collection for most applicants
- Standard validity of 90 days for short-term visits
- Visa on Arrival (VoA) options for qualified business travellers
Processing time
7-15 working days
Processing times vary significantly depending on the specific Nigerian Mission and the applicant's nationality. Some locations offer expedited services for an additional fee.
Estimated cost
$180 - $340
- Government Visa Fee (varies by nationality)$160 - $250
- Transaction & Biometric Fees$20 - $90
- Embassy Processing Fee (if applicable)Varies
Requirements
- Applicant must be visiting for genuine business purposes only.
- Passport must have at least two blank pages for entry/exit stamps.
- Host company in Nigeria must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
- The Invitation Letter must explicitly accept full immigration responsibility for the visitor.
- Proof of travel insurance covering the duration of the stay is highly recommended.
- Applicants must not intend to engage in any form of paid employment.
- Evidence of professional status or business ownership in the home country.
- Payment of the correct visa fee based on the applicant's country of citizenship.
Documents you'll need
- Valid international passport with at least 6 months validity
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (white background)
- Formal Letter of Invitation from the host company in Nigeria
- Certificate of Incorporation of the Nigerian host company
- Evidence of sufficient funds (recent bank statements)
- Return flight itinerary and proof of hotel reservation
- Letter of Introduction from the applicant's employer overseas
- Evidence of visa fee payment (online receipt)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Online Application
Access the official Nigerian Immigration Portal to fill out the visa application form accurately. Ensure all names match your passport exactly.
- 2
Fee Payment
Pay the required visa and transaction fees online using a credit or debit card. Print the payment receipt and acknowledgment slip.
- 3
Gather Host Documents
Collect the Letter of Invitation and the Certificate of Incorporation from your Nigerian host. These are critical for approval.
- 4
Book Appointment
Schedule an appointment at the nearest Nigerian Embassy, Consulate, or OIS/VFS Global centre for biometric enrollment.
- 5
Document Submission
Submit your passport and all supporting documents. During this stage, you may be asked brief questions about your trip.
- 6
Visa Processing
The consulate will process your application. You can often track the status online or via the application centre.
- 7
Passport Collection
Once approved, collect your passport with the visa sticker. Check all details on the visa for accuracy before leaving the centre.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure the invitation letter is signed by a senior official and includes the company stamp.
- Double-check that the name on your payment receipt matches the name in your passport.
- Bring original documents to your appointment even if you have uploaded copies online.
- Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date to account for delays.
- Ensure your bank statements are recent (within the last 3 months) and show sufficient balance.
- Do not book non-refundable flights until you have received your visa approval.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.