Nigeria to Launch e-Visa and Arrival Card in 2025
Nigeria unveils electronic visa and digital arrival card, effective May 1, 2025, aiming to modernize immigration, boost tourism, and enhance security.
On 1 May 2025, Nigeria will take a significant step in modernising its immigration policy with the official launch of two major innovations: the electronic visa (e-Visa) and the arrival card. Designed to streamline, accelerate and secure entry for international travellers—including tourists, business visitors and investors—the new measures mark a major shift in the country’s border management approach.
The original launch date for the e-Visa was previously announced as 1 March 2025. However, on 9 April 2024, an update was posted from the official X account of Nigeria’s Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, confirming the new implementation timeline. Implementation will be led by multiple agencies including the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigeria Immigration Service.
What’s changing
Electronic Visa (e-Visa)
Travellers can complete the entire visa application entirely online, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate.
The process is fully digital: submitting the application, uploading required documents (passport, flight ticket, hotel booking, etc.), secure payment of visa fees and receipt of the approved visa via email.
Approval is expected within 24 to 48 hours, drastically cutting waiting times upon arrival.
The system applies to all foreign travellers except citizens of countries with existing visa-exemption agreements with Nigeria.
Digital Arrival Card
From 1 May 2025, arriving passengers will use an electronic entry and exit card replacing traditional paper forms.
The digital card is designed to streamline arrival and departure formalities, and can be pre-filled online before travel.
Why these reforms matter
Modernization: Nigeria is aligning with international best practices in border management, following examples set by countries such as Morocco, Cameroon and Mauritania.
Attractiveness: By simplifying entry, the government aims to draw more tourists, investors and business travellers, supporting economic growth and development.
Security: Automated processing improves migration flow control and enhances traveller data management.
Towards a 100% digital experience
Nigeria plans to launch a dedicated e-Visa mobile app in the near future, enabling travellers to apply, pay and track their visa status directly from their smartphones. Designed to deliver a seamless, fast and globally compliant user experience, the initiative underscores the government’s commitment to digital-first border management. With the introduction of the e-Visa and digital arrival card effective 1 May 2025, Nigeria is positioning itself as a front-runner in African immigration innovation. These reforms are expected to make the country more accessible while strengthening security and energising the tourism and business sectors.
