The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) handles everything you need to move in or out of the country. Whether you’re a traveler, a resident, or a business looking to bring staff over, NIS is the place you’ll deal with for passports, visas, and border checks. This page pulls together the most useful updates, so you don’t have to hunt around different sites.
In the past year NIS has rolled out several online tools. The e‑Passport portal now lets you apply for a new passport or renew an existing one without stepping into a consular office. The e‑Visa system also runs 24/7, which means you can start an application from anywhere, track its progress, and get your visa sent to your email once it’s approved. These changes aim to cut waiting times and reduce paperwork.
Getting a visa for Nigeria is straightforward if you follow the steps. First, decide which visa type you need – tourist, business, student, or transit. Then head to the NIS e‑Visa portal, create an account, and fill in the online form. You’ll need a clear copy of your passport (at least six months valid), a recent passport‑size photo, and a letter of invitation or proof of accommodation if you’re visiting for business or tourism.
After uploading the documents, pay the visa fee using a credit card or mobile money. The system will generate a receipt; keep it handy. Most visa applications are processed within five to seven business days, but it’s wise to apply at least two weeks before your travel date in case of delays. Once approved, you’ll receive a PDF visa that you must print and present at the airport.
Remember to double‑check the visa’s validity period. Some visas allow multiple entries, while others are single‑entry only. If you plan to travel in and out of Nigeria frequently, ask for a multiple‑entry visa during the application.
Renewing a Nigerian passport can be done online or at a local NIS office. The online route saves time: log into the e‑Passport portal, select “Renew Passport,” and fill in your personal details. You’ll need a recent passport‑size photo, a copy of your old passport, and a birth certificate or national ID for verification.
Pay the renewal fee online, then schedule a biometric appointment if required. Some renewals are processed entirely online, and you’ll get a digital copy of the new passport that you can print until the physical one arrives. The physical passport typically arrives within 10‑14 days after biometric verification.
If you prefer the in‑person method, visit the nearest NIS office with the same documents. Bring your old passport and any supporting IDs. The staff will take your fingerprints, capture a new photo, and give you a receipt with a tracking number. You can check the status of your application on the portal using that number.
To avoid scams, always use the official NIS website (nis.gov.ng) and never pay agents who claim they can fast‑track your passport for a huge fee. The NIS has a free helpline for inquiries – dial 0700‑NIS‑HELP.
Besides visas and passports, NIS also publishes travel alerts. These cover health risks, security concerns, and border closures. Before you travel, check the latest alert on the NIS dashboard. If you’re moving to Nigeria for work, the service also assists with residence permits and work authorizations.
In short, the Nigeria Immigration Service is becoming more digital and user‑friendly. By using the e‑Visa and e‑Passport portals, you can save time, avoid long queues, and keep track of your applications easily. Keep this page bookmarked for quick reference to the latest NIS news, tips, and official resources.
Nigeria raised domestic passport fees to ₦100,000 for 32 pages and ₦200,000 for 64 pages from Sept 1, 2025. Peter Obi condemned the decision, noting the new costs exceed the ₦70,000 monthly minimum wage. The Immigration Service says higher fees will sustain quality and service. Critics say the increase prices out students, workers, and families who need to travel for study or work.
