Impact – Medium
What is the change? Nigeria has tightened enforcement of overstay rules on visas and has applied financial penalties to foreigners who are found to be overstaying approved lengths of stay.
What does the change mean? Under the e-Pass scheme introduced in 2015, foreigners (non-ecowa) citizens taking part in tourists, business or temporary work permit visas for more than 56 days must pay a $200 immigration fee for stays of up to 90 days, 91-180 days, and $2,000 for a maximum of one year. Those who stayed too much will be liable for a 100% fine and original e-pass fee if they find out they don't have an e-pass. So the penalty ranges from $200 to $4,000.
Implementation time frame: Immediate and continuous. Affected Visas/Authorization: e-Pass; Business and Tourist Visas. Business Impact: Business visitors should be aware of increased enforcement and fines. Next Step: Foreigners already in Nigeria (except citizens of ECOWAS countries) should purchase e-passes at local banks and track the number of days in the country to avoid overstaying. The e-pass form for the desired overstay period will be obtained and processed domestically.
Analysis and Comments: The increase in enforcement indicates that Nigerian immigration officers will be more focused on compliance with the e-pass scheme, and that travelers will be checked at departure, seeking e-pass or passports and paying a fine if they are staying on a visa.
Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a registered limited liability partnership in the UK and Wales, and is a registered office located in 1 New Street Square with registration number oc303675 and London EC4A 3HQ in the UK.
