The Nigerian government is set to enforce strict penalties on foreigners who have overstayed their visas, following the expiration of a five-month amnesty period on September 30, 2025. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced a nationwide crackdown on visa overstayers, citing national security and compliance with immigration laws as key reasons.
Penalties for Overstaying: Less than 3 months: Removal, $15 daily fine, or 2-year entry ban- 3 months to 1 year: Removal, $15 daily fine, or 5-year entry ban- Over 1 year: Removal, 10-year or permanent entry ban.
The NIS has warned that enforcement actions will target holders of expired Visa on Arrival, single or multiple-entry short visit or business visas, and individuals with expired Comprehensive Expatriate Residence Permits and Automated Cards (CERPAC).
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo emphasized that Nigeria’s immigration laws are meant to be respected, not abused. The government has launched an AI-driven tracking system to monitor and locate visa overstayers.
The crackdown is part of broader reforms aimed at digitizing and tightening immigration rules, including electronic visa applications and automated arrival/departure cards.
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