The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that effective August 1, 2025, the Nigerian Federal Government will begin imposing strict penalties on foreigners who have overstayed their visas. To provide an opportunity for affected individuals to comply with immigration regulations, an online immigration amnesty portal is available until the end of July. The portal allows visitors to regularize their stay before the penalties are enforced.
U.S. citizens currently in Nigeria who have overstayed their visa are strongly encouraged to regularize their stay through the amnesty portal before July 31, 2025. Failure to do so may result in significant financial penalties and long-term restrictions on re-entry to Nigeria. All U.S. citizens are reminded to adhere to Nigerian visa regulations to avoid complications.
Key Information:
- Amnesty Period: As part of broader immigration reforms, Nigeria’s Interior Ministry introduced a $15 daily surcharge for each day a visitor overstays their visa, effective May 1, 2025. An amnesty period, during which individuals can regularize their status without incurring fines, will end on July 31, 2025.
- Penalties After August 1:
- Visitors who fail to regularize their status by the end of the amnesty period will be subject to the accrued daily surcharge.
- Overstays of six months or more will result in a five-year re-entry ban.
- Overstays of one year or more will result in a 10-year re-entry ban.
- Online Portal: The newly launched portal enables holders of expired visa-on-arrival permits, lapsed single-entry visas, or overdue expatriate residence cards to:
- Submit applications for a stay permit online.
- Upload required supporting documents.
- Obtain clearance without visiting an immigration office.
This streamlined system eliminates the need for in-person visits, long queues, and additional fees, making compliance with immigration requirements more accessible.
U.S. Embassy Abuja, Nigeria
Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive, Central District Area
+234 209 461 4328 and after hours +234 209 461 4000, press zero
AbujaACS@state.gov
https://ng.usembassy.gov/
U.S. Consulate General Lagos
2 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island
+234 201 460 3400 during business hours and after hours
LagosACS@state.gov
https://ng.usembassy.gov/
State Department – Consular Affairs
+1 888-407-4747 or +1 202-501-4444
Nigeria Country Information
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