From March 1, 2025, tourists, businessmen and foreign investors will be able to apply for an electronic visa (e-Visa) to travel to Nigeria.
Nigeria is set to take the next step in modernizing its immigration system with the introduction of the electronic visa (e-Visa), an initiative designed to make entry to its territory simpler, faster and more secure.
From March 1, 2025, travelers will be able to complete their entire visa application online, without having to visit an embassy or consulate.
On X (formerly Twitter), Nigerian Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo shares the government’s vision:
As we count down to the March 1st launch of our revised visa policy, which features the E-Visa and an end-to-end application process for Nigerian visas, we are meticulously ensuring that every detail is addressed to deliver a seamless, secure, and safe solution. This initiative aims to unlock Nigeria’s economic potential by fostering tourism and business growth.
Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo – Minister of the Interior of Nigeria | X
This statement illustrates the authorities’ determination to make Nigeria a more accessible destination for business travellers, tourists and international investors.
A 100% digital system for a simplified experience
With this new system, the visa process becomes entirely paperless. Applicants will be able to :
- Submit their application online via a dedicated platform;
- Upload the required documents directly on the site (passport, return ticket, hotel reservation, etc.);
- Pay visa fees securely;
- Receive their visa by e-mail.
The objective is clear: to reduce waiting times and streamline the administrative process, which could previously be tedious and discouraging.
Make the visa application process for Nigeria “seamless and reduce approval time”
Beyond simplifying formalities, this project is part of a broader vision: to attract more investment and boost tourism. By facilitating access to the country, Nigeria hopes to boost its attractiveness on the international stage.
“Under our new Visa Policy, the automated E-visa solution will strengthen our migration management system as well as make the process of applying for the Nigerian visa seamless and reduce approval time especially for tourists and visitors who are on a short-stay mission or assignment,” explains Minister on X.
Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo adds that “this development aligns with our nation’s commitment to facilitating seamless travel experiences and fostering global connections. And, as we strive to create a globally connected world, Nigeria is poised to become a major player by embracing innovative solutions and global best practices, where we can bridge the gap between our diaspora community and the homeland for an inside-out national growth and development.”
In a context where many African countries are modernizing their entry policies, this reform places Nigeria in the race for immigration innovation. By adopting the e-Visa, the country is following in the footsteps of destinations such as Cameroon, Morocco and recently Mauritania, which have already successfully implemented similar systems.
An official communication should soon be in place, notably on the website of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), to detail this transition.
