Immigration Law at Nigeria
Immigration law in Nigeria governs the entry, stay, and exit of non-citizens, and is primarily enforced by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). Here are the key elements:
1. Main Legal Framework
Immigration Act, 2015: This is the principal legislation for immigration in Nigeria. It outlines the rules for visas, work permits, deportation, and residence.
Immigration Regulations, 2017: Provides further guidelines and procedures under the Immigration Act.
2. Types of Permits and Visas
Visa on Arrival (VoA): Available for short visits, business, or emergency travel for eligible nationals.
Temporary Work Permit (TWP): For short-term technical work.
Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa: For long-term employment; leads to residence/work permit (CERPAC).
Residence Permits (CERPAC): Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card, required for long-term stay.
3. Expatriate Quota
Companies hiring foreign workers must obtain an Expatriate Quota Approval from the Ministry of Interior.
4. Citizenship
Nigeria recognizes citizenship by birth, descent, registration, and naturalization.
Naturalization requires residency of 15 years and demonstration of good character.
5. Deportation and Repatriation
The government can deport any non-citizen who breaches immigration laws or poses a threat to national security.
6. Recent Developments
Nigeria has been modernizing immigration with the e-passport system and biometric registration.
More regional mobility within ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) allows citizens of member countries to enter without visas.
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