The Nigerian government is making big changes to how it handles foreign visitors who stay too long on their visas. Starting in May 2025, anyone who overstays will be charged a $15 fine for each day they stay extra. But the real enforcement will begin in August 2025, after a three-month grace period.

During this amnesty period (from May to July), people who have overstayed can fix their immigration status or plan to leave without paying any fines. According to Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the goal is not to punish people, but to help them follow the law.

However, if someone overstays for more than three months after the grace period, they will be banned from entering Nigeria for five years. And if they stay over a year without using the grace period to fix their situation, they will be banned for life.

Also, the government is modernizing the visa and residency process. From May 1, 2025, foreigners can apply and pay for their Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) completely online. No more paper forms or trips to the bank.

Tunji-Ojo also warned that people with criminal records should not apply, as Nigeria’s immigration system will now be connected with international databases like Interpol.

Lastly, companies hiring foreign workers will be held responsible if their employees break immigration rules. This is part of Nigeria’s plan to match international standards and clean up its immigration system.