National Orientation Agency (NOA) announced, the Federal Government has imposed “tougher Visa Rules for expatriates” effective May 1, with strict enforcement from August 1.
These include, “$15 daily fine for visa overstays, 10-year entry ban for overstays beyond one year.”
According to NOA:
FG Imposes Tougher Visa Rules for Expatriates
The Federal Government has announced new immigration measures effective May 1, with strict enforcement from August 1. Key highlights include:
• Overstay Penalties:
• $15 daily fine for visa overstays.
• 5-year entry ban for overstays beyond six months.
• 10-year entry ban for overstays beyond one year.
• New Expatriate Reforms:
• Automated Landing/Exit Cards
• Electronic Visa (e-visa) system with 48-hour processing
• Mandatory Annual Expatriate Comprehensive Insurance
• Automated CERPAC (no fee increase) linked with Interpol
• Revised Expatriate Quota System
• Employers liable for violations by foreign staff
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said the reforms aim to curb abuse, enhance data accuracy, and attract legitimate business while eliminating corruption-prone processes. A three-month moratorium allows expatriates to regularize their status before penalties begin.
