By Atoyebi Nike
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced the end of its amnesty window for foreigners with expired visas or residence permits, effective September 30, 2025.
From October 1, the agency said it will begin nationwide enforcement against foreign nationals who have overstayed their visa or violated entry conditions.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Akinsola Akinlabi, NIS listed categories affected as holders of expired Visa on Arrival (VoA), expired short visit or business visas, and expired Comprehensive Expatriate Residence Permit and Automated Cards (CERPAC).
Akinlabi warned that violators will face sanctions, including overstay fines, removal, and possible restrictions from re-entering Nigeria. The penalties include:
Less than 3 months: removal, $15 daily fine, or a 2-year entry ban.
3 months to 1 year: removal, $15 daily fine, or a 5-year entry ban.
Over 1 year: removal and a 10-year or permanent entry ban.
The Service said the measure is aimed at safeguarding national security and ensuring lawful migration, while maintaining transparency in Nigeria’s immigration system.
