The United States Embassy has alerted its citizens in Nigeria to comply with new immigration directives issued by the Nigerian government, warning that strict penalties will be enforced from August 1, 2025.
The advisory follows an earlier statement by Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who announced that foreign nationals who overstay their visas would face stiff consequences.
To provide relief, the Nigerian government launched an immigration amnesty portal for foreigners to regularise their status before July 31.
“US citizens currently in Nigeria who have overstayed their visa are strongly encouraged to regularise their stay through the amnesty portal before July 31, 2025,” the U.S. Embassy said in a statement.
From August 1:
A $15 daily surcharge will apply for each day of overstay
Overstaying by 6 months or more will lead to a 5-year re-entry ban
Overstaying by 1 year or more will attract a 10-year re-entry ban
The embassy explained that the online platform allows users to apply for a stay permit and upload documents without visiting an immigration office.
“The portal eliminates the need for in-person visits, long queues, and unofficial fees, making compliance easier,” the embassy added.
