The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a five-month amnesty period for foreign nationals with expired visas and residence permits to regularise their status without facing penalties.
The new Expired Visa Initiative (Amnesty) is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s secure and transparent migration system under the new visa regime, according to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
9am News report confirms that the amnesty, which began on 1st May 2025, will run until 30th September 2025, providing a unique window for travellers and expatriates who have overstayed or violated visa conditions to legalise their stay.
Announcing the scheme at the weekend, the NIS Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, an Assistant Comptroller of Immigration, listed those eligible:
- Foreign nationals with expired Visa on Arrival (VoA)
- Holders of expired single-entry and multiple-entry visas
- Individuals with expired Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC), where renewal is overdue by more than 30 days
“This initiative provides a unique window for foreigners currently residing in Nigeria with expired immigration status to regularise their stay without penalties,” Akinlabi said.
To take advantage of the amnesty, affected foreigners are advised to regularise their stay via https://amnesty.immigration.gov.ng within the grace period to avoid overstay fines.
He also assured that the NIS has set up a dedicated support team to help with applications and can be reached via email at amnesty@immigration.gov.ng.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains committed to facilitating lawful migration, safeguarding national security, and promoting transparency and efficiency across all immigration processes,” Akinlabi added.
For more details on how to apply or renew an expired visa under the new policy, visit the official Nigeria Immigration Service website: www.immigration.gov.ng.
Stay tuned to 9am News Nigeria for more Breaking News, Business News, Sports updates And Entertainment Gists.
