On July 15, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced the resolution of a three-year-long dispute between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This resolution means that travel between the two nations can resume, but with new and updated requirements for Nigerians seeking a UAE visa. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.

New Requirements for a UAE Visa

1. Document Verification Number (DVN): To obtain a UAE visa, Nigerian travelers must now secure a Document Verification Number (DVN). This DVN serves as a specialized service designed to authenticate and verify essential documentation for visa applications. The cost of the DVN is ₦640,000, excluding VAT, and it is non-refundable.

2. Validity and Processing: The DVN is valid for only 14 days from the date of issuance or until the visa application has been processed, whichever comes first. Applicants can expect to receive their DVN within five business days once the payment is successfully processed.

3. Additional Costs: It’s important to note that the ₦640,000 fee for the DVN does not cover the visa fee itself. The visa fee must be paid separately by credit card at the UAE visa center in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city.

Financial Requirements

4. Bank Statement: Applicants are required to provide a six-month bank statement showing a minimum balance of $10,000. This proof of financial stability is crucial for the visa application process.

5. Travel and Accommodation: Additionally, Nigerian travelers must show proof of round-trip flight tickets and hotel bookings. These documents are necessary to demonstrate that you have made proper travel arrangements and accommodations for your stay in the UAE.