The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced the commencement of a Post-Amnesty Voluntary Return and Documentation Programme (PAVRDP) for foreign nationals who failed to regularise their stay or leave the country before the expiration of the Expired Visa Amnesty on September 30, 2025.

The new initiative, which begins on October 13, 2025, offers a final opportunity for affected individuals to report to the nearest Immigration Command for registration and documentation.

In a statement, the NIS Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, said the programme provides a window for those who missed the earlier amnesty period to come forward voluntarily.

“Sequel to the expiration of the Expired Visa Initiative (Amnesty) on 30th September 2025, the Nigeria Immigration Service wishes to inform the general public that it has commenced a Post-Amnesty Voluntary Return and Documentation Programme (PAVRDP),” he stated.

Akinlabi explained that each individual’s case would be reviewed separately in line with the Immigration Act, 2015 and related regulations.

“Each person will have his or her circumstances assessed on a case-by-case basis before an appropriate action is determined,” he added.

The Service, however, issued a strong warning against non-compliance, harbouring, or aiding irregular migrants, stressing that such acts are punishable under Nigerian law.

“The public is reminded that aiding or harbouring illegal immigrants constitutes an offence. Individuals, companies, and organizations involved in such acts will be prosecuted,” the statement read.

The NIS further cautioned that foreigners who violate visa conditions and fail to report for documentation risk arrest, detention, deportation, and long-term entry bans.

“The Service wishes to emphasize that any foreigner who has breached the conditions of his or her visa and fails to report will be arrested, detained, and removed from Nigeria, as provided by extant immigration laws,” Akinlabi said.

He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to promoting humane and orderly migration, ensuring compliance with immigration laws, and safeguarding national security through effective migration management.