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The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has commenced a nationwide enforcement exercise targeting foreign nationals who have overstayed their visas or violated immigration conditions, following the expiration of the Federal Government’s visa amnesty initiative.
The amnesty programme, introduced on July 5, 2025, gave foreign nationals with expired immigration documents the opportunity to regularise their status without penalties. The window officially closed at midnight on September 30, 2025.
In a statement issued just before the deadline, the Service Public Relations Officer, ACI Akinsola Akinlabi, announced that enforcement operations began on October 1, focusing on individuals with expired Visa on Arrival (VoA), expired single- or multiple-entry short visit and business visas, as well as those holding expired Comprehensive Expatriate Residence Permits and Automated Cards (CERPAC).
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“Foreign nationals found in violation will face sanctions, including removal from the country, payment of penalties, or restrictions from future entry,” the statement said.
The NIS outlined a tiered penalty framework based on the length of overstay:
- Less than 3 months: Removal from the country, payment of $15 per day, or a two-year entry ban.
- 3 months to 1 year: Removal, payment of $15 per day, or a five-year entry ban.
- Over 1 year: Removal and a 10-year or permanent entry ban.
The agency stressed that the crackdown is part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s immigration system, safeguard national security, and promote transparency in migration processes.
The NIS also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all foreign nationals comply with immigration laws while encouraging embassies, companies, and individuals to support the enforcement exercise by reporting violations and cooperating with immigration officials.
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