The United States Embassy in Abuja has advised its citizens in Nigeria to take urgent steps to comply with new immigration rules.
The warning follows fresh Nigerian government policy targeting foreigners who have overstayed their visas. This includes stiff fines and lengthy re-entry bans.
“US citizens currently in Nigeria who have overstayed their visa are strongly encouraged to regularise their stay through the amnesty portal before July 31, 2025,” the embassy warned.
“Failure to do so may result in significant financial penalties and long-term restrictions on re-entry to Nigeria.”
Daily Rates, 10-Year Ban for Offenders
The Nigerian Ministry of Interior, led by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had earlier announced a sweeping reform targeting illegal stayers.
From May 1, 2025, a $15 daily surcharge (about ₦22,500 at current rates) began applying to every extra day spent beyond visa limits.
“Overstays of six months or more will result in a five-year ban on re-entry,” the embassy said. “Overstays of one year or more will result in a 10-year re-entry ban.”
For now, there is a lifeline — the online Immigration Amnesty Portal, where foreign nationals can regularise their stay until July 31, 2025, without paying fines.
Visit Nigeria Immigration Service for more information.
No Queues, No Bribes — Just Log In
The US Embassy described the Nigerian portal as a simpler, digital way to apply for stay permits and upload supporting documents.
“This streamlined system eliminates the need for in-person visits, long queues, and additional fees,” it added.
The new service covers:
- Expired visa-on-arrival permits
- Lapsed single-entry visas
- Overdue expatriate residence cards
These can now be renewed online without stepping into any immigration office.
Will This Boost Nigeria’s Global Image?
The Interior Ministry says the policy promotes transparency and removes corruption-prone bottlenecks.
But some foreigners say the penalties are steep and the window too short.
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