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Residency Guide to Nigeria

Establishing residency in Nigeria can be challenging. Here are some helpful tips for expats, retirees, and nomads.
|-Residency Guide to Nigeria

Obtaining a residency visa in Nigeria is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Nigeria gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

  • Gather the necessary documents for residency status in Nigeria. These documents include a valid passport, a completed application form, a valid visa, and proof of financial stability.
  • Visit the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) website to obtain the application form and to learn more about the residency requirements.
  • Submit the application form and the required documents to the NIS office in Nigeria.
  • Pay the applicable fees for the residency application.
  • Wait for the NIS to process the application and to issue a residency permit.
  • Apply for a Tax Number:
    • Visit the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) website to obtain the application form.
    • Submit the application form and the required documents to the FIRS office in Nigeria.
    • Pay the applicable fees for the Tax Number application.
    • Wait for the FIRS to process the application and to issue a Tax Number.
  • Register with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to obtain a National Identification Number (NIN).
  • Visit the Nigerian Embassy in your home country to obtain a valid visa.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Nigeria?

“If you plan to stay in Nigeria for a while, you will need to obtain a valid Nigerian visa. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term visa, such as a work visa, student visa, or residence permit. You will also need to provide proof of identity, such as a passport, and other documents, such as a letter of invitation from a Nigerian host or sponsor. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of financial resources, such as a bank statement, and a valid return ticket,” said one expat living in Nigeria.

“In order to visit Nigeria, travelers must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Nigeria, applicants must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee. Depending on the type of residency, additional documents may be required. Applicants may also be required to provide proof of employment, proof of financial stability, and a medical certificate. Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residency permit,” commented one member living in Nigeria.

Joshua WoodJoshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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