Nigeria Visa Guide — Every Visa Type Explained
Key highlights
- Comprehensive range of visas for tourism, business, and transit
- Streamlined online application portal for all categories
- Visa on Arrival (VoA) program for business travellers and investors
- Introduction of the New Visa Policy (NVP) with 79 visa classes
- Special Subject to Regularization (STR) route for long-term workers
- Reciprocity-based fee structures for different nationalities
- Compulsory biometric enrolment for most applicants
Processing time
3-10 working days
Processing times fluctuate based on the specific embassy's workload and the applicant's nationality. Always apply at least 3 weeks before travel.
Estimated cost
$180 - $340+
- Standard Single Entry Visa Fee$160 - $250
- Biometric/Transaction Fees$20 - $90
- Reciprocity Fees (for specific nationalities)Variable
Requirements
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay
- Proof of legal residence in the country where you are applying
- Intent to leave Nigeria at the end of the authorised stay
- A confirmed return air ticket or itinerary
- A Letter of Invitation (LOI) accepting full immigration responsibility (for most classes)
- Evidence of sufficient financial means to cover the duration of the visit
- Compliance with health requirements, including Yellow Fever vaccination proof
- Payment of the prescribed visa fee via the official NIS portal
- Completion of biometric data capture at an authorised centre
- No criminal record or entry bans in Nigeria
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and two blank pages
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (white background)
- Printed and signed visa application form from the NIS portal
- Online payment receipt and acknowledgment slip
- Formal Letter of Invitation from a host in Nigeria or a hotel reservation confirmation
- Host's passport copy or Nigerian National ID (for private visits)
- Certificate of Incorporation (for business visits)
- Evidence of sufficient funds (recent bank statements)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Identify your Visa Class
Determine which of the 79 visa classes fits your purpose (e.g., F5A for Tourism or F4A for Business).
- 2
Complete Online Application
Complete the online application form on the official Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) portal.
- 3
Pay Fees Online
Pay the visa fee and any applicable transaction fees online using a credit or debit card.
- 4
Print Documentation
Print your completed form, payment receipt, and acknowledgment slip—these are mandatory for your appointment.
- 5
Gather Supporting Documents
Gather your invitation letter, host's ID, and financial documents as per your specific visa category.
- 6
Submit Application & Biometrics
Schedule and attend an interview or biometric capture at the nearest Nigerian Embassy, Consulate, or OIS/VFS Global centre.
- 7
Await Processing and Approval
The embassy processes your application; you will be notified when your passport is ready for collection or return delivery.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure the name on your invitation letter matches your passport exactly.
- Double-check that your host has signed the invitation letter and provided their contact details.
- Always carry your Yellow Fever 'Yellow Card'—you will be asked for it at the airport.
- Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa has been approved and issued.
- Check if your nationality attracts a Reciprocity Fee, which may be payable in person.
- Verify the specific requirements of your local mission, as some have unique document needs.
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.