Expected since March 1, the rollout of the electronic visa in Nigeria is finally scheduled for May 1, 2025. The Nigerian government is taking this opportunity to introduce a system of automated landing and exit cards, in a deliberate bid to modernize border control.
It’s official: Nigeria will launch its electronic visa (e-Visa) on May 1, 2025, postponing the initially announced date by two months. This was confirmed by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Nigeria’s Minister of Internal Affairs, in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on April 9.
Today, we continued with the engagement of key stakeholders ahead of the implementation of the new electronic visa (e-Visa) system that is expected to commence on May 1st, 2025 by bringing together all heads of agencies responsible for the seamless execution of the new module and migration framework.
Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo (Nigeria’s Minister of Interior) – X | April 9, 2025
This reform marks a turning point in the country’s migration policy, as it moves fully into the digital age.
An electronic visa to simplify access to Nigeria
With e-Visa, there’s no longer any need to physically visit a Nigerian embassy or consulate. The new system will enable foreign travelers – whether tourists, professionals or students – to apply for a visa entirely online, by uploading the necessary documents and paying the associated fees securely.
According to Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, this transition aims to offer a smoother, faster experience, but also to combat intermediaries and administrative delays.
A 100% digital arrival card for Nigeria
Another new feature announced by the federal government is the introduction of an automated landing and exit card. This form, hitherto filled in manually on the plane or at the airport, will now be available online prior to travel. Passengers will be required to submit it before boarding, with airlines responsible for checking compliance.
A measure which, according to the authorities, will not only save time on arrival, but also enable more accurate data to be collected on migratory flows. This automation is part of the drive to secure borders in the digital age.
During the session, we explained how the newly automated landing and exit card will enhance processes as well as help the government in areas of documentation and intelligence gathering of foreigners in and out of the country.
Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo (Nigeria’s Minister of Interior) – X | April 9, 2025
A concerted strategy between ministries
This vast reform project is being carried out in coordination with several institutions, including the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, welcomed this cross-sector collaboration, saying that the digital transformation of border services could not be achieved without close coordination.
By modernizing its migration management tools, Nigeria hopes to attract more visitors while guaranteeing the security of its territory. The launch of e-Visa and electronic cards marks a crucial step in the digitization of public services.
For Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, it’s all about showing a forward-looking Nigeria: “What we’re putting in place today is a 21st century immigration system – fast, reliable, secure”.
Thank you to all who made this happen. I will visit Nigeria next year ( Kano and Lagos). I wonder how much the e-visa will be for tourists from Ireland?