Different Types of Nigeria Travel Visas Explained

The Nigerian state (the Giant of Africa) is one of the most culturally diverse and economically important countries in Africa that can be visited by a variety of people – business representatives, students, tourists, or expatriates. Be it in the crowded Lagos, business trips in Abuja or the natural lure of Cross River, entry in Nigeria demands a proper visa.

When visiting Nigeria, it is necessary to understand the nature of the travel visa to Nigeria to visit without any hitch. Whether it is a short-stay tourist visa or a long-term residence permit, the purpose of each type of the visa is different. This guide explains the main types of Nigeria travel visas, who can apply, and how, and answers such questions as How many visa types are in the Nigeria? Which visa of Nigeria is the easiest to obtain?

Main Types of Travel Visa to Nigeria

Below are the major categories under which foreign nationals can apply to enter Nigeria:

1. Tourist Visa (Short Visit Visa)

• The Tourist Visa is aimed at individuals who are intending to visit Nigeria on a vacation, sightseeing or visit friends and relatives.
• Validity: Normally a maximum of 90 days
• Processing Time: 3- 7 business days
• Requirements: A ticket back, accommodation information, travel plan, passport of at least 6 months validity
• This is usually believed to be the simplest Nigerian visa to obtain in case you are applying it as an individual travelling and possess the necessary papers.

2. Business Visa

• This visa is to people who will be doing business, attending meetings, and commercial activities but not employment.
• Validity: 30 90 days
• Extension: Potentially possible
• Documents Needed: An invitation letter by a Nigerian company, evidence of business registration and a cover letter by the company of the applicant

3. Temporary Work Permit (TWP)

• Expatriates invited to Nigerian companies on short term assignments like repairs, training and installations are also granted this.
• Eligibility: Short term expatriates of high skills
• Validity: Normally 30 days (not extendable)
• Sponsorship: A Nigerian employer will need it

4. Regularization (STR) Visa

An STR Visa is issued to foreign nationals who have acquired a long-term job in Nigeria and intend to apply residence/work permit upon arrival.

• Purpose: Work, missionary service, NGO duties
• The next step is to apply and obtain Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC)
• Important Document: STR approval letter by Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS)

5. Transit Visa

• This type of visa gives one a temporary stay in Nigeria as a transit to another destination.
• Validity: Not more than 7 days
• Use Case: Travelers going through Nigeria and have no plans to stay
• Prerequisites: Visa to the next destination and travel plan

6. Official Visas and Diplomatic Visas

• Issued to the government officials or representatives of the international organizations on official missions.
• Fee: Free of charge
• Requirements: Diplomatic Note or invitation of the Nigerian authority

7. Visa on arrival (VoA)

• They are offered only to regular business travellers and some types of investors who can pass the pre-approval criteria.
• Pre-Approval: Yes, via Nigeria Immigration Service
• Best Suited: Investers, Business travelers
• Which is the easiest Nigeria visa to obtain? This Visa on Arrival is a convenient alternative to be used by qualified corporate travelers provided that the pre-approval is taken.

How Many Visa Types Are There in the Nigeria?

The types of Nigeria travel visas are more than seven with each having varying travel intentions like tourism, business, employment and official duties amongst others. They are also divided into Short Visit Visas (SVV), and Temporary Residence Visas (TRV) according to the Nigerian Immigration Guidelines.

Short Visit Visas Consist Of:

• Tourist Visa
• Business Visa
• Transit Visa
• Visa On Arrival
• Temporary Residence Visas Include:
• STR Visa
• Temporary Work Permit (TWP)

Application Process

• Online Application: Go to Nigerian Immigration Service Portal.
• Form Submission: Fill visa form, scan documents and pay online.
• Appointment Booking: Schedule an appointment to submit your documents and biometrics at the Nigerian embassy or consulate.
• Approval & Collection: Wait to be approved of your visa and collect a visa.
• In Visa on Arrival, pre-approval procedure is conducted through the special VoA portal, which is followed by payment and retrieval of the document the airport in Nigeria.

FAQs about Nigeria Travel Visas

Q1. How many visa types are there in the Nigeria?

There are more than seven visa types grouped mainly into short-stay and long-stay categories, including Tourist, Business, TWP, STR, and Visa on Arrival.

Q2. Which Nigeria visa is easiest to get?

For tourists, the Tourist Visa is typically the easiest to obtain with basic documents. For business travelers, Visa on Arrival (if eligible) offers a fast-track option.

Q3. Can I convert a tourist visa into a work visa in Nigeria?

No. You must apply for a Subject to Regularization (STR) visa before entering Nigeria if you intend to work or stay long-term.

Q4. Is Visa on Arrival available to all nationalities?

No, it’s limited to select countries and specific categories like frequent business travelers and investors. Prior approval is mandatory.

Q5. Can I apply for a Nigerian visa online?

Yes, the initial visa application process begins online through the Nigerian Immigration Portal.

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Recommended Read: Complete Visa Information for Nigeria Travellers

• Essential Documentation for a Nigeria Tourist Visa from Oman Application