The Nigerian government has officially introduced two new digital systems aimed at improving the efficiency of its immigration processes. Launched by the Federal Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the e-Visa Application System and the Automated Landing and Exit Card were rolled out on May 1, 2025.

A.S. Akinlabi, the Public Relations Officer for NIS, explained that these new initiatives align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which focuses on enhancing border control, simplifying travel procedures, and boosting national security.

The newly implemented e-Visa system replaces the traditional Visa on Arrival process and is now fully operational online at [https://evisa.immigration.gov.ng](https://evisa.immigration.gov.ng).

Under the revised visa policy, all visa applications are processed entirely online and are expected to be completed within 48 hours.Thirteen different visa categories are available under the Short Visit Visa (SVV), and approved visas are delivered electronically, complete with QR codes.

However, visas issued via this system are non-extendable. Visa on Arrival will be fully phased out by May 30, 2025.Starting September 1, 2025, new penalties for overstaying visas will be introduced. These penalties include a daily fine of \$15. Visitors who overstay for three months or more will face a five-year entry ban, while overstays of one year or more will result in permanent blacklisting.In addition to the e-Visa, the Nigeria Immigration Service has launched an Automated Landing and Exit Card system.

This system replaces the manual embarkation and disembarkation cards, and it requires all inbound passengers (except Nigerian citizens) to complete an online landing card before boarding. Outbound passengers are also required to complete an exit card before departure.

The digital system is integrated with visa data and will automatically enforce penalties for non-compliance.Akinlabi also noted that there will be a three-month grace period, from May 1 to August 1, 2025, for foreigners residing in Nigeria with expired visas. During this period, they may leave the country without facing penalties.

The Nigeria Immigration Service has urged all stakeholders, including travellers, airlines, and embassies, to comply with these new procedures.“We are committed to delivering a transparent, efficient, and secure immigration system in line with global best practices,” Akinlabi said.