Nigeria, renowned for its rich biodiversity, historic sites, and vibrant culture, has become a sought-after destination for tourists worldwide. With the introduction of Nigeria’s tourist visas, the country annually welcomes over a million tourists. Nigeria offers different types of visas, including the Nigeria tourist visa and the Nigeria visitor visa.

Understanding Nigeria Tourist Visa

Nigeria Tourist Visa

The Nigeria tourist visa is designed for travelers seeking to explore the country for leisure and tourism. This short-term visa is valid for 90 days, allowing tourists to visit their favorite destinations within Nigeria.

Nigeria Visitor Visa

Another short-stay visa option is the Nigeria visitor visa. Unlike the tourist visa, this visa is intended for those planning to visit family or friends in Nigeria. To apply for a Nigeria visitor visa, you need an invitation from a resident of Nigeria. Like the tourist visa, the visitor visa is also valid for 90 days and can be extended as needed.

How to Apply

To apply for either of these visas, follow the online application process, which combines both online and offline steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit Nigeria’s official immigration website and complete the online application form.
2. Pay the visa fees online.
3. Print the visa application form and payment receipt.
4. Attach two photographs meeting specified requirements to the Visa Form IMM22, along with other supporting documents.
5. Mail the documents and form to the Nigerian embassy.
6. Alternatively, you can visit the embassy in person to submit your documents or hand them over to the relevant visa application center.

When filling out the form and providing documents, ensure that all information is accurate and documents are genuine. Any errors or mistakes can lead to delays or rejection of the visa application.

Eligibility for Nigeria Tourist Visa

To qualify for a Nigeria tourist or visitor visa, several parameters must be met:

• Proof of a confirmed visit with pre-booked round-trip flights.
• Intent to visit solely for tourism or visiting acquaintances, without seeking employment.
• Proof of the purpose of your visit, including an invitation letter from a Nigerian resident if you’re visiting acquaintances.
• Meeting health requirements, including a medical test and relevant documentary proof.
• Compliance with age limitations for work permit applications.
• Satisfying character requirements with appropriate documentary proof, such as a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).
• Possession of sufficient funds, supported by bank statements or equivalent documents.

Documents Required

For both Nigeria tourist and visitor visas, specific documents are necessary:

For Nigeria Tourist Visa:

• Passport with a validity of at least 6 months and two blank visa pages.
• Photographs meeting photo specifications.
• Confirmed return ticket.
• Bank statements for the past 6 months or proof of sufficient funds.
• Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation.
• Original certificates of Polio and Yellow Fever vaccination.

For Nigeria Visitor Visa:

• Passport with a validity of at least 6 months and two blank visa pages.
• Photographs as per photo specifications.
• Confirmed return ticket.
• Bank statements for the past 6 months or proof of sufficient funds.
• Proof of accommodation, either the address of the inviter or a hotel reservation.
• Invitation letter from the inviter or host.
• Original certificates of Polio and Yellow Fever vaccination.

Photo Specifications

Ensure your visa application photos meet these specifications:

• Two identical passport-size photos.
• Taken within the last three months.
• Colored with a white background.
• Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm.
• 80% face coverage.
• Neutral facial expression.
• Central head placement.
• Glasses are not allowed, except for religious reasons.
• Headwear permitted for religious reasons.

Processing Time and Fees

Typically, processing time for Nigeria tourist and visitor visas is 10 to 12 business days, though it may vary based on certain factors.

Visa fees depend on various factors such as the type of visa, biometric charges, online service fees, and more. Here’s a sample fee for a single-entry tourist visa:

• Single entry Normal: 3 months validity, 3 months stay duration – ₦34,000.0

Checking Visa Status

You can check your visa status online on the Nigeria Embassy’s website or the visa application center’s website if you applied through an agency. Alternatively, contact the embassy with your visa application number for offline status inquiries.

Upon Receiving the Visa

Before You Travel:

• Note the visa’s expiry date and permitted number of entries; avoid overstaying.
• Travel to Nigeria within your visa’s validity.
• Carry copies of your passport and travel documents.
• Obtain health and travel insurance from a certified provider.

At the Border:

• Present your documents for verification and passport stamping.
• Consult airport authorities if needed.
• Adhere to visa guidelines and rules.

Upon Arrival in Nigeria:

• Refrain from engaging in any employment activities, though volunteer work is allowed.
• Avoid restricted tourist areas.
• Ensure you don’t overstay and apply for a visa extension if necessary.