The U.S. Embassy in Abuja has notified American citizens about upcoming changes to Nigeria's visa policy, effective from August 1, 2025. The Nigerian Federal Government will enforce strict penalties on foreigners who overstay their visas. An online immigration amnesty portal is available until the end of July for individuals to regularize their stay before these penalties are implemented.
U.S. citizens in Nigeria with expired visas are urged to use the amnesty portal by July 31, 2025, to avoid financial penalties and potential long-term re-entry bans. Adherence to Nigerian visa regulations is emphasized.
The Interior Ministry of Nigeria has introduced a $15 daily surcharge for each day a visitor overstays their visa since May 1, 2025. The amnesty period allows visitors to regularize their status without incurring fines until July 31, 2025.
Post-August 1 consequences include accrued daily surcharges and significant re-entry bans: six months or more of overstay results in a five-year ban, while one year or more results in a ten-year ban.
A newly launched online portal assists holders of expired visas or residence cards in applying for stay permits and uploading necessary documents without visiting immigration offices. This system aims to simplify compliance with immigration requirements.
Contact details for the U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in Nigeria are provided for further assistance:
U.S. Embassy Abuja
Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive, Central District Area
+234 209 461 4328 (after hours +234 209 461 4000)
AbujaACS@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Lagos
2 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island
+234 201 460 3400 (during business hours and after hours)
LagosACS@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs can be reached at +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444.
For additional information on Nigeria, travelers can enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and follow updates on social media platforms such as Twitter/X and Facebook.