July, 2025 | Abuja
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced a nationwide amnesty program for foreign nationals residing in the country with expired visas, allowing them to regularise their stay without facing penalties.
The service made the announcement on Saturday, July 6, 2025, stating that the initiative is aimed at promoting compliance with immigration laws and fostering a more inclusive and orderly immigration process.
According to the Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, the amnesty window will enable affected individuals to visit designated immigration offices across the country to renew or adjust their immigration status without the usual fines or punitive consequences.
“This is a one-time opportunity to bring all foreign residents with expired documentation into lawful status,” she stated. “The goal is not to punish but to promote accountability, national security, and ease of doing business.”
The NIS urged embassies, foreign missions, and international organisations in Nigeria to sensitise their citizens and staff about the amnesty period, which will last for a limited time.
Applicants are advised to present valid travel documents and proof of residence when visiting immigration offices to initiate the regularisation process.
The policy has been welcomed by human rights groups and members of the diplomatic community, who praised the government for adopting a humane and pragmatic approach to immigration compliance.