If you are looking to expand your career to Nigeria or planning to bring employees into the country, understanding Nigeria’s work visa and permit requirements is essential.
Nigeria’s process is detailed but manageable if you know what to expect. This guide will walk you through everything, from visa types to application requirements, and help simplify the steps involved in obtaining the permits.
Types of Work Visas in Nigeria
In Nigeria, work visas are categorized primarily by the duration and nature of stay. As of early 2023, Nigeria offers three main types of visas:
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Short Trip Visa: For brief work-related visits, this visa is valid for three months and is commonly used for training sessions, conferences, or temporary projects.
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Temporary Residence Visa: For longer stays, this visa allows foreigners to reside in Nigeria for up to two years, ideal for expatriates with long-term contracts or assignments.
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Permanent Residence Visa: For individuals looking to make Nigeria a long-term home, this visa provides residency without a specified end date.
For anyone planning to work in Nigeria, the Temporary Residence Visa is typically the first step. However, holding this visa alone does not grant permission to work. In addition, a Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) is necessary to legally engage in employment.
Requirements to Obtain a Nigeria Work Visa
To live and work in Nigeria, foreign employees need to start with a Temporary Residence Visa. Here is a breakdown of the key requirements:
Documents Needed for a Temporary Residence Visa
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Formal application from a Nigerian employer: This letter is typically written by the sponsoring company in Nigeria.
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Valid Passport: The passport should have at least six months’ validity and two blank pages for stamps and visas.
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Proof of Financial Means: Evidence that the applicant can support themselves during their stay.
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Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent passport-sized photographs are required.
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Completed Visa Application Form: Applicants need to fill out an online form, which can be accessed through the Nigerian Immigration Service website.
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Employment Documents: An official job offer letter from the Nigerian company and an acceptance letter from the employee.
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Educational and Professional Documents: The applicant’s CV and any relevant academic qualifications.
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Expatriate Quota Approval: This document shows the Nigerian company has permission to hire expatriates.
Requirements for a CERPAC Card
Once in Nigeria, the employee will need to apply for a CERPAC card to gain the legal right to work. Required documents include:
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Application Letter from the Employer: The letter should state that the Nigerian employer accepts immigration responsibility and requests that the employee’s stay be regularized.
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Employment Agreement: Proof of job offer acceptance.
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Completed Application Form: This form is typically available on the Nigerian Immigration Service portal.
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Expatriate Quota Approval: Confirmation of the employer’s authorization to hire foreign nationals.
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Photographs: Three passport-sized photos.
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Passport with Temporary Residence Visa Endorsement: The applicant’s passport must reflect their approved temporary residence status.
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Business Permit: This document demonstrates that the employer is legally operating in Nigeria.
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Proof of Payment: Receipts for application fees.
Application Process for a Work Visa in Nigeria
Obtaining a Nigerian work visa can be broken down into steps before and after the applicant arrives in the country.
Pre-Departure Steps
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Sign an Employment Contract: Applicants must have a signed employment contract with a Nigerian company.
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Complete an Online Application: Visit the Nigerian Immigration Service website to fill out the Temporary Residence Visa application.
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Contact the Nigerian Embassy: Applicants need to submit their paperwork and pay the visa application fee at their local Nigerian embassy or consulate.
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Processing Time: The Temporary Residence Visa is typically processed within seven days, although times may vary by location.
Steps After Arrival in Nigeria
Once the Temporary Residence Visa is obtained, applicants can travel to Nigeria and proceed with the following:
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Regularize Residency Status: Apply for regularization of stay through the Nigerian Immigration Service.
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Apply for a CERPAC Card: This card serves as both a residence and work permit.
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Obtain an Aliens Registration Card: This additional document helps monitor foreign nationals in Nigeria.
After receiving the CERPAC card, the employee has the legal authority to work in Nigeria. Initially, the CERPAC card is valid for two years, with the possibility of renewal if the work assignment extends.
Renewal and Replacement of the CERPAC Card
If the employee’s assignment in Nigeria goes beyond two years, it is important to renew the CERPAC card before it expires. Here are the renewal requirements:
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Original CERPAC Card: The expiring card must be presented for renewal.
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Valid Passport: Including any relevant pages, such as the visa endorsement page.
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Proof of Quota Approval: Reaffirming that the employer has permission to hire expatriates.
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Renewal Letter from Employer: The employer should formally request the renewal on behalf of the employee.
In cases where the CERPAC card is lost, the same documents are required for replacement, along with additional fees.
Key Considerations for Work Visa Applicants
Working in Nigeria is a great opportunity for growth, but it requires close attention to immigration requirements. Here are a few additional points to keep in mind:
- Follow-Up on Application Status: Keeping track of the application process is crucial to ensure there are no delays in processing.
- Compliance with Local Laws: Foreign employees should ensure they understand and adhere to Nigerian labor laws and workplace regulations.
- Preparation for Renewal: Renewal can be streamlined by starting the application well before the expiration date, especially if the work assignment is expected to extend beyond two years.
Final Thoughts
Securing a work visa and permit for Nigeria involves multiple steps, but the process is manageable with preparation. For employees, this opportunity allows them to bring their expertise to one of Africa’s most dynamic economies. For employers, it is a chance to enhance their team with global talent. With a clear understanding of the visa and permit requirements, your transition to working in Nigeria can be smooth and rewarding.