In a bold move to modernise Nigeria’s immigration system and strengthen internal security, the Federal Government has officially launched two major digital reforms: the e-Visa Application System and the Automated Landing and Exit Card.
According to a statement by the spokesperson of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Akinsola Akinlabi, the initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Interior in collaboration with the NIS—is a key component of the broader visa reform strategy under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Akinlabi stated that the digital systems were designed to streamline visa processing, improve border control, and align Nigeria’s immigration practices with international standards.
He explained that the new e-Visa system, which officially replaces the traditional Visa on Arrival regime as of May 1, 2025, is faster, more secure, and entirely digital. It introduces 13 types of Short Visit Visas (SVVs), processed entirely online within 48 hours or less, and delivered electronically with secure QR codes.
He added that the Visa on Arrival option is now discontinued, though previously issued visas remain valid until May 30, 2025. The new e-Visas are non-extendable. Full details are available at https://evisa.immigration.gov.ng.
To ensure compliance, Akinlabi announced the implementation of strict overstay penalties effective August 2, 2025. Foreigners who exceed their visa validity will face a $15 daily fine, with further penalties including a 5-year entry ban for overstays of 3 months or more, and permanent blacklisting for overstays exceeding one year.
The NIS has also introduced the Automated Landing and Exit Card to replace manual embarkation and disembarkation forms. All inbound foreign travelers must complete the landing card online before boarding, while outbound passengers are required to complete the exit card before departure via https://lecard.immigration.gov.ng. The system is integrated with the national visa database and will automatically apply relevant sanctions.
In a gesture of goodwill, Akinlabi noted that the NIS has provided a three-month window—from May 1 to August 1, 2025—for foreigners currently residing in Nigeria with expired visas to return to their home countries voluntarily and without penalty.
Describing the reforms as a step toward global best practices, the NIS reaffirmed its commitment to building a more efficient, transparent, and secure immigration system.
“These reforms underscore our commitment to a transparent, efficient, and secure immigration system,” said the spokesperson for the Nigeria Immigration Service. “We urge all travelers, residents, and stakeholders to comply fully with the new policies and timelines.”
