The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced the start of nationwide enforcement against foreigners who have overstayed their visas or breached immigration regulations, following the conclusion of the Federal Government’s visa amnesty programme
The amnesty, launched on July 5, 2025, allowed foreign nationals with expired immigration documents to regularize their status without penalties. The initiative officially ended at midnight on September 30, 2025.
In a statement released Tuesday just before the deadline, NIS Public Relations Officer ACI Akinsola Akinlabi confirmed that enforcement operations would begin on October 1. The crackdown targets holders of expired Visa on Arrival (VoA), expired single or multiple-entry short visit and business visas, as well as foreigners with expired Comprehensive Expatriate Residence Permits and Automated Cards (CERPAC).
Foreign nationals found in violation of immigration laws will face sanctions, including deportation, payment of fines, or restrictions on future entry. The NIS outlined the penalty structure as follows:
- Less than three months’ overstay: removal, payment of $15 per day, or a two-year entry ban.
- Three months to one year: removal, payment of $15 per day, or a five-year entry ban.
- One year and above: removal and a 10-year or permanent entry ban.
The agency emphasized that the enforcement is intended to ensure lawful migration, protect national security, and promote transparency within Nigeria’s immigration system.
Follow Us on Facebook – @LadunLiadi; Instagram – @LadunLiadi; Twitter – @LadunLiadi; Youtube – @LadunLiadiTV for updates
 has announced the start of nationwide enforcement against foreigners who have overstayed their visas or breached immigration regulations, following the conclusion of the Federal Government’s visa amnesty programme.){kind=link}
Nigeria sef dey buga