The Nigerian government has unveiled strict new measures for visa overstayers under the forthcoming Nigeria Visa Policy (NVP) 2025.
Announced by Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during a stakeholder meeting at NECA House in Lagos, the policy introduces a $15 daily fine for overstaying, with enforcement beginning in August 2025 after a grace period. While penalties officially take effect in May, individuals will have until August to comply.
Tunji-Ojo explained that overstaying for three months would result in a five-year entry ban, while a year or more would trigger a ten-year ban.
The initiative, led by the Ministry of Interior and Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), aims to curb visa misuse and strengthen border security. He emphasized that the reform is about ensuring responsible migration and safeguarding national integrity.
As part of NVP 2025, Nigeria has fully digitized its visa application process, allowing applicants to apply online, track progress in real time, and receive electronic approvals.
The meeting also addressed reforms to the Expatriate Quota System, further underscoring the government’s commitment to modernizing immigration procedures.
Attendees included NIS officials, foreign mission representatives, and key private sector stakeholders.
