The Federal Government has rolled out a visa amnesty programme aimed at helping foreign nationals in Nigeria regularize their stay without facing penalties.
The initiative, launched by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), is designed to improve compliance with the country’s updated visa regulations and support secure migration management.
According to a communiqué issued in Abuja, the amnesty period began on May 1, 2025, and will continue through September 30, 2025.
It applies specifically to foreign nationals who have overstayed their visas or violated visa conditions.
The programme covers:
Individuals with expired Visa on Arrival (VoA)
Holders of expired Single or Multiple-Entry Visas
Foreign nationals with expired CERPAC (Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card) who have exceeded the 30-day grace period for renewal
NIS spokesperson, Akinsola Akinlabi, encouraged affected individuals to take advantage of the window to avoid penalties.
“Affected foreign nationals are encouraged to regularise their stay through the designated portal at https://amnesty.immigration.gov.ng during the grace period to avoid penalties for overstaying,” he said.
To support applicants, the Immigration Service has set up a dedicated support team to handle inquiries and assist with the process.
Foreigners can reach out via email at amnesty@immigration.gov.ng or visit the official immigration website for more information.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to foster transparency and accountability in immigration control, while also ensuring that residents comply with Nigerian immigration laws.
