The Federal Government has announced August 1, 2025, as the deadline for foreign nationals to regularise their immigration status or face stiff penalties for overstaying their visas.
Interior Minister, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this known at a stakeholders’ sensitisation forum organised by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in Abuja. He explained that the government had opened an Immigration Amnesty Portal in July to allow affected individuals to legalise their stay in Nigeria before the new enforcement policy takes effect.
“Once the amnesty period is over, we will implement the law 100 per cent. And of course, there will be a penalty for overstaying in Nigeria,” the minister warned.
The initiative forms part of sweeping immigration reforms introduced in April, which included a $15 daily surcharge for each day a visitor overstays beyond the date stamped in their passport.
However, the government also provided a three-month grace period, ending July 31, to allow defaulters to rectify their stay without incurring the fine.
By August 1, defaulters could face a five-year re-entry ban for overstaying by six months and up to 10 years for remaining illegally in Nigeria beyond one year, according to the Immigration Service guidelines.
Dr Tunji-Ojo urged members of the diplomatic community to spread awareness among their citizens. “Our laws are not meant to be abused. Our laws are meant to be respected,” he said.
The minister noted that the online platform enables individuals with expired visa-on-arrival documents, lapsed single-entry visas or overdue expatriate residence cards to apply for a stay permit from the comfort of their homes without visiting an immigration office.
Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, reiterated that the new electronic system offers better security and faster processing. “These digital solutions leverage technology to streamline processes, enhance security, and improve the overall experience for travellers and stakeholders,” she said.
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