Nigeria Replaces Visa on Arrival with e-Visa and Digital Travel Cards in Landmark Immigration Overhau

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Ameenah Hassan

Nigeria Ends Visa on Arrival, Launches e-Visa and Automated Travel Cards

Nigeria has officially ended its Visa on Arrival (VoA) policy, replacing it with a fully digital e-Visa application system and mandatory automated landing and exit cards, effective May 1, 2025. This reform marks a major shift in Nigeria’s immigration policy, aimed at tightening border security, aligning with international best practices, and easing travel documentation processes through digitalization.

Implications for Visa on Arrival

Visa on Arrival Discontinued: The previous policy allowing eligible foreign nationals to obtain a visa upon arrival in Nigeria has been completely phased out. Travelers must now apply online and receive approval before traveling.
VoA Visas Still Valid Until May 30, 2025: Travelers who received visas under the Visa on Arrival system prior to May 1 can still enter Nigeria, but only until May 30, 2025. After this date, all entry permits must be obtained through the new e-Visa platform.
No More On-Arrival Processing: Border officials will no longer issue or process visas at ports of entry. Passengers without a valid e-Visa will be denied entry.
Stricter Compliance and Enforcement: The e-Visa system is integrated with Nigeria’s new digital monitoring infrastructure, enabling real-time visa tracking and automatic enforcement of overstay penalties or visa bans.

What the New e-Visa System Offers

Entirely Online Application: Travelers can now apply for and obtain Nigerian visas online through the e-Visa Portal , eliminating the need for physical visits to embassies or immigration offices.
Fast Turnaround: Visa decisions are made within 48 hours, with approved applicants receiving an email containing a QR-coded visa approval letter.
13 New Visa Categories: The Short Visit Visa (SVV) category includes options for tourism, business, medical visits, and more.
Non-Extendable Visas: All e-Visas issued are strictly non-extendable, so travelers must carefully choose their visa type and stay duration.

Mandatory Landing and Exit Cards for All Foreigners

Pre-Arrival and Pre-Departure Filing: All non-Nigerians must complete the landing card before arrival and the exit card before departure via lecard.immigration.gov.ng.
Digital Enforcement: The system is integrated with visa and border control platforms, allowing for real-time tracking and enforcement.

Overstay Fines and Entry Bans

Daily Fine: $15 per day for overstaying a visa.
Overstay >3 Months: $15/day plus a 5-year entry ban.
Overstay >1 Year: $15/day plus permanent blacklisting from entering Nigeria.

Temporary Grace Period

Foreigners currently residing in Nigeria with expired visas can return home without penalties if they depart between May 1 and August 1, 2025. This grace period allows affected individuals to avoid overstay fines and legal consequences.

Conclusion

The end of Visa on Arrival signals a shift toward a more secure, efficient, and globally aligned immigration regime in Nigeria. Travelers must now plan ahead, apply online, and comply with strict digital protocols. The reforms are part of Nigeria’s broader effort to enhance national security, improve immigration management, and provide a seamless travel experience.

Official Resources

Nigeria Immigration Service: https://immigration.gov.ng
e-Visa Portal: https://evisa.immigration.gov.ng
Landing/Exit Card Portal: https://lecard.immigration.gov.ng

Ameenah Hassan

Ameenah Hassan is a content writer with experience in public relations. She has contributed to Arbiterz since 2021, writing research-based news and features on business. She is currently pursuing a degree in Mass Communication at the University of Lagos.