Nigeria Visa Policy 2026: Requirements, Fees & VoA Guide

Visiting Nigeria requires navigating its visa policy, but recent reforms have made the process smoother. Whether you are a business traveler, a tourist, or a specialized worker, this guide covers the 2026 requirements.

1. Visa on Arrival (VoA) - The Preferred Option

New reforms allow high net worth investors and frequent business travelers to obtain a Visa on Arrival. Note: This is mostly used by Business Travelers.

Who is Eligible?

• Business travelers
• Investors
• Tourists (in specific cases, though difficult without local host)
• Holders of passports carrying African Union (AU) visas

Step-by-Step VoA Process

1. Apply Online: Visit the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) portal.
2. Upload Documents: Passport copy, introduction letter from host company in Nigeria, CAC documents of host company, return ticket.
3. Pay Fees: Payment must be made online with a credit/debit card (Visa/Mastercard).
4. Receive Approval Letter: Sent via email within 48 hours. Do not travel without this letter.
5. Fly: Present the approval letter at your departure airport.
6. Biometrics on Arrival: At Lagos/Abuja airport, proceed to the VoA desk for biometric capture and visa sticker issuance.

2. Standard Visitor / Tourist Visa

For those applying at a Nigerian Embassy/Consulate abroad compared to VoA.

Required Documents

• Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages.
• Completed Application Form: Print from NIS website.
• Passport Photos: Two recent passport-sized photos on white background.
• Letter of Invitation: From a host in Nigeria (with their passport copy/CAC).
• Proof of Funds: Bank statements showing sufficient funds.
• Flight Itinerary: Provisional booking (do not pay until visa is approved).
• Hotel Reservation: Or proof of accommodation at host's address.

3. Business Visa

Designed for meetings, conferences, and trade.

• Validity: 90 days (Single Entry).
• Processing Time: 5-10 business days.
• Key Requirement: Invitation letter from a Nigerian company accepting immigration responsibility (IR) is mandatory.

4. STR Visa (Subject to Regularization)

For expatriates coming to live and work in Nigeria.

• Requires Expatriate Quota approval from the Ministry of Interior.
• Valid for 90 days initially, then regularized into a CERPAC (Residence Permit) in Nigeria.

Visa Fees (Estimates 2026)

• Fees vary significantly by nationality. *

• USA Citizens: ~$160 USD
• UK Citizens: ~$144 USD
• India Citizens: ~$253 USD
• Biometric Fee: Additional $90-$110 handling charge by OIS/VFS centers.

Important Tips

• Yellow Fever: A valid Yellow Fever vaccination card is mandatory for entry. You will be checked before immigration.
• OIS/VFS Services: Most visa applications are handled by OIS Services or VFS Global, not directly at the embassy. Check the specific provider for your country.
• Scams: Only use the official portal immigration.gov.ng. Avoid third-party "visa agents" unless verified.