By Odita Sunday
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced that enforcement actions against foreigners with expired visas or irregular immigration status will commence nationwide from October 1, 2025.
This follows the expiration of the Expired Visa Initiative (Amnesty), introduced by the Federal Government on July 5, 2025, which granted foreigners the opportunity to regularize their stay in Nigeria without penalties. The Amnesty window officially closed at midnight on September 30, 2025.
A statement issued by the Service on Tuesday explained that the enforcement exercise will target the following categories of foreign nationals:
Holders of expired Visa on Arrival (VoA).
Holders of expired Single and Multiple-Entry Short Visit or Business Visas.
Individuals with expired Comprehensive Expatriate Residence Permit and Automated Card (CERPAC).
According to the NIS, “With the expiration of the Amnesty period, any foreign national found in violation of immigration laws will be subject to enforcement measures as provided under the Immigration Act.”
The Service urged all concerned individuals to ensure full compliance with Nigeria’s immigration regulations.