The Nigerian government has announced strict new penalties for foreign nationals who overstay their visas, under the Nigeria Visa Policy (NVP) 2025. Beginning in August 2025, overstayers will be fined $15 daily and could face re-entry bans of up to 10 years.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during a stakeholder engagement session held at NECA House in Lagos. According to the Minister, the new penalty system will officially take effect in May 2025, but a grace period will be granted until August to allow visa holders time to adjust.
Under the revised policy, overstaying for three months will lead to a five-year ban, while overstaying for one year or more will result in a ten-year ban. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) will be responsible for enforcing these new rules.
Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the reforms aim to boost compliance, enhance national security, and encourage responsible migration practices.
