Nigeria cracks down on Undocumented Foreigners from May 1st

From May 1st, 2025, Nigeria will officially activate a new era in immigration processes—one that signals “business unusual” for undocumented foreigners residing in the country. In a major step toward digitising its immigration system, the Federal Government is rolling out a fully automated electronic visa (e-Visa) system, alongside new digital landing and exit cards for all incoming and outgoing passengers.

This transformative initiative is being driven by the Ministry of Interior in partnership with the Ministry of Aviation and other key agencies responsible for border security and migration control.

A New Era for Migration in Nigeria

Speaking during a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held in Abuja, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), unveiled the new module, which aims to tighten documentation, boost border intelligence, and strengthen Nigeria’s overall security infrastructure.

With the support of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the e-visa and digital tracking model is expected to ensure better coordination of foreign nationals within the country.

What Foreigners Should Know

At the heart of this policy is a new requirement: all foreigners will now be expected to present their digital landing and exit cards at points of entry and departure. These cards will be integrated into the broader e-visa system, capturing essential data and streamlining processes for immigration officers and airport authorities.

But beyond tech and tracking, the move sends a clear message: undocumented residence in Nigeria will no longer be overlooked.

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A 3-Month Amnesty Window: May to August 2025

In a display of magnanimity, the government has created a three-month grace period—from May to August 2025—for undocumented migrants and foreigners with expired papers to regularise their status.

This means individuals currently without valid residency or work permits have until August 31st to visit a nearby immigration command and obtain the proper documentation. After this window, enforcement will become stricter.

What Happens After August?

If you still don’t have your “papers” in order by the end of August, you may face serious consequences, including:

• Deportation
• Fines
• Exclusion from re-entry
• Other penalties as outlined by Nigeria’s immigration laws

The new system aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed commitment to secure borders while maintaining fairness for lawful foreign residents. For those committed to staying in Nigeria the right way, this is a timely opportunity. For those on the fringes of legality, the clock is ticking.