Nigeria’s Visa Overstay Penalties: $15 Fine & Lifetime Ban

Nigeria’s New Rule: $15 Daily Fine for Visa Overstayers

​The Nigerian government has announced stringent new penalties for visa overstayers, set to take effect from August 1, 2025. Under the Nigeria Visa Policy (NVP) 2025, foreign nationals who remain in the country beyond their visa validity will face a daily fine of $15. Additionally, those who overstay for more than three months will be subject to a five-year re-entry ban, while overstays exceeding one year will result in a ten-year ban from re-entering Nigeria .​

Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, emphasized that these measures aim to deter visa abuse and promote responsible migration. Although the penalties are officially effective from May 2025, a three-month grace period has been provided until August 1, allowing current visa holders to regularize their status without incurring fines .

In line with these reforms, the government is also set to digitize the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) process starting May 1. This initiative will enable foreign nationals to complete applications and make payments online, streamlining the procedure and enhancing compliance monitoring .​

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) will be responsible for enforcing these new regulations. Foreign nationals currently residing in Nigeria are advised to take advantage of the grace period to ensure compliance and avoid future penalties.​