The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced the commencement of a nationwide crackdown on visa overstayers following the expiration of the federal government’s three-month visa amnesty programme on October 1, 2025.
In a statement, NIS spokesman, Akinsola Akinlabi, said the enforcement exercise will target foreign nationals who failed to regularise their immigration status within the grace period. He warned that offenders risk heavy penalties, including fines, deportation, and in severe cases, lifetime entry bans.
“With the expiration of the amnesty period, effective October 1, 2025, enforcement actions will commence nationwide against foreign nationals who have overstayed their visa or violated their entry conditions,” Akinlabi stated.
The crackdown will cover a wide category of visa holders, including those with expired Visa on Arrival (VoA), single- and multiple-entry short visit or business visas, as well as holders of expired Comprehensive Expatriate Residence Permit and Automated Cards (CERPAC).
According to NIS guidelines, foreigners who have overstayed for less than three months may face removal, a $15 daily fine, or a two-year entry ban. Overstayers between three months and one year risk removal, a $15 daily fine, or a five-year entry ban. Those exceeding one year face removal, a 10-year entry ban, or permanent exclusion from Nigeria.
Akinlabi stressed that the enforcement drive is designed to safeguard national security and uphold lawful migration.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains committed to enforcing the law, protecting national interests, and promoting transparency and efficiency across all immigration processes,” he added.
