United Arab Emirates is considering slashing visa and Document Verification Number (DVN) for Nigerians. Recall that on October 21, 2022, the UAE government announced a ban on 20 African countries, including Nigeria.

However, on July 15, 2024, Nigeria’s Information Minister, Mohammed Idris, announced that the ban “has been lifted following a mutually beneficial discussion” between Nigeria and the UAE”.

Following the recent lifting of the visa ban, the UAE imposed more controls on the visa process, requiring document verification to ensure the authenticity of documents submitted by applicants. 

The DVN) fee was structured at N640,000 by the website managing the DVN process. Additionally, a bank balance of N15 million was requested as a precondition to obtain a visa.
 
But in response to the widespread concern, Nigeria requested through official channels that the UAE should reconsider the fees.  Sources close to the UAE have revealed that a new and revised rate for DVN and the bank balance requirement was imminent. This potential review aims to make it more affordable for Nigerians to visit the UAE for tourism, business, and family visits.