Nigerian passport holders will continue to require visas to travel to France, Germany and Portugal, as the three European countries maintain visa requirements for Nigeria.

The position was reaffirmed by Germany’s Federal Foreign Office in an updated overview of visa requirements and exemptions published in June, which confirms that Nigerian citizens require visas to enter the country.

The update also shows that Mauritius and Seychelles are the only African countries whose nationals can enter Germany without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within 180 days, subject to applicable entry conditions. The exemption does not permit employment.

An analysis of France’s official visa rules similarly shows that citizens of 29 countries and territories are exempt from visa requirements for short stays under existing reciprocal agreements and European Union regulations. Nigeria is not among the beneficiaries, and no sovereign African country qualifies for visa-free entry under France’s current arrangements.

Portugal’s official visa rules also indicate that citizens of 59 countries qualify for visa-free entry for short stays. Among African countries, only Mauritius and Seychelles are exempt from visa requirements.

The three countries’ policies mean Nigerians travelling for tourism, business, study or family visits must continue to obtain the appropriate visas before departure and satisfy applicable entry requirements.

The United Kingdom has also maintained its visitor visa policy for Nigerian passport holders. Under the UK’s immigration rules, Nigerians remain among nationals of more than 100 countries required to obtain a visa before travelling for visits of up to six months, including for tourism, business, family visits, medical treatment and short courses.