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
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PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.