Date Announced: May 20, 2025
Overview:
The Nigerian government, in collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service, has launched a comprehensive digitalization of its immigration system. This initiative reduces bureaucracy and promotes greater transparency in visa issuance and residence permits—even benefiting students and expatriates.
Key Highlights:
- Digital Visa Issuance: Introduction of an online platform for short-term business and visitor visas, significantly reducing wait times and eliminating the need for physical embassy visits.
- Streamlined CERPAC Processing: The Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) and Expatriate Quota applications are now processed online, avoiding lengthy manual procedures.
- Improved Transparency: Applicants can now track their applications, receive status notifications, and submit additional documents digitally—enhancing accountability and minimizing delays.
Benefits for Students & Travelers:
- Efficient Entry Process: International students, especially, can now apply remotely without needing to visit Nigerian embassies or consulates.
- Faster Approvals: The new system is expected to accelerate visa issuance, allowing quick enrollment in Nigerian universities and smoother onboarding for visiting researchers or academics.
- Reduced Fees & Time: By eliminating manual paperwork, applicants will save on processing costs and avoid administrative bottlenecks.
Why It Matters:
These reforms mark a major step forward in modernizing Nigeria’s immigration framework. For Nigerian citizens and foreign students, it means easier access to travel, academic and business opportunities. It also positions Nigeria as a more competitive destination in the global academic and professional landscape.
