Immigration begins clampdown on foreigners with expired visas

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has commenced enforcement action nationwide against foreign nationals who overstayed their visas or violated entry conditions in Nigeria.

The NIS made this known in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, on Wednesday, October 1, 2025.

Akinlabi said the action followed the expiration of the Federal Government’s Expired Visa Initiative (Amnesty), which ended by midnight of Tuesday, September 30.

The amnesty programme, announced on July 5, allowed foreigners with expired immigration status to regularise their stay in Nigeria without penalties.

Akinlabi stated that the enforcement exercise, effective October 1, would target categories of foreigners.

This, he said, included holders of expired Visa on Arrival (VoA), holders of expired single and multiple-entry short visit or business visas, as well as individuals with expired Comprehensive Expatriate Residence Permit and Automated Card (CERPAC).

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Akinlabi noted that foreign nationals found to have violated Nigeria’s immigration laws would face sanctions, including payment of overstay penalties, removal from the country, and possible restrictions from future entry into Nigeria.

He also outlined applicable overstay penalties and entry restrictions to include “less than three months overstay attracts removal, a fine of 15 dollars per day for each day overstayed, or an option of a two-year entry ban.

“Overstay between three months and one year attracts removal, $15 per day penalty or a five-year entry ban.

“Overstay of one year and above attracts removal and a 10-year or permanent entry ban.”

The NIS spokesman reiterated the Service’s commitment to ensuring lawful migration, safeguarding national security, and promoting transparency and efficiency across all immigration processes.

The Star