Guide to Residency in 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.

Detailed Directions for a Foreigner to Obtain Residency Status in Nigeria

• Understand the types of residency permits
  • Subject to Regularization (STR): for foreigners employed by Nigerians or expatriate resident companies
  • Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC): for foreigners employed by companies registered in Nigeria
  • Permanent Residence: for foreign spouses of Nigerian citizens or Afro-Caribbean/Afro-American descendants
• Obtain a job offer or marry a Nigerian citizen
  • For employment-based residency, secure a job offer from a Nigerian company or an expatriate resident company
  • For marriage-based residency, provide a valid marriage certificate
• Apply for a Tax Identification Number (TIN)
  • Visit the nearest Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) office
  • Complete the 'Application for Taxpayer Identification Number' form
  • Submit the form along with a valid passport and a copy of your employment letter or marriage certificate
  • For more information, visit the official FIRS website: https://www.firs.gov.ng/
• Obtain Business Permit (for employment-based residency)
  • Visit the Ministry of Interior's Citizenship and Business Department
  • Complete the Business Permit application form
  • Submit the form along with the required documents, including the company's Certificate of Incorporation and TIN
• Apply for the appropriate residency permit
  • Visit the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) office
  • Complete the residency permit application form
  • Submit the form along with the required documents, including your passport, employment letter or marriage certificate, TIN, and Business Permit (if applicable)
  • Pay the prescribed fees and obtain a receipt
  • For more information, visit the official NIS website: https://immigration.gov.ng/
• Undergo biometric registration and obtain residence permit
  • Visit the NIS office on the scheduled date for biometric registration
  • Provide fingerprints and capture your photograph
  • Collect your residence permit once it's ready
• Register with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC)
  • Visit the nearest NIMC enrollment center
  • Complete the pre-enrollment form online: https://penrol.nimc.gov.ng/
  • Submit the form and provide the required documents, including your residence permit
  • Undergo biometric registration and obtain your National Identification Number (NIN)
• Renew your residency permit as required
  • Residency permits are usually valid for 2 years and can be renewed by visiting the NIS office
  • Complete the renewal application form and submit the required documents
  • Pay the prescribed renewal fees

It is essential to follow these steps carefully and ensure that you have all the required documents at each stage. Patience is crucial, as the process can take time. Always consult the official websites or visit the relevant offices for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas 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.