Nigeria is Africa's largest economy and most populous nation, offering a dynamic environment for business travelers and entrepreneurs. While there is no dedicated digital nomad visa, visitors can use the new e-visa system (launched March 2025) for tourist or business stays up to 90 days. Lagos is often called the "Silicon Savannah of Africa" with a booming tech ecosystem, numerous coworking spaces, and vibrant startup scene. ECOWAS citizens from 15 West African countries enjoy visa-free access with full freedom of movement. The cost of living is relatively affordable compared to Western countries, though Lagos and Abuja are the most expensive cities. Internet connectivity is rapidly improving with 4G widespread and 5G rolling out in major cities. Healthcare quality varies significantly between public and private facilities, making international health insurance essential for foreign visitors.
8
Visa Types
17
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:
Visa requirements vary by nationality
🎫 Available Visa Types
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Tourist
ECOWAS Free Movement
Citizens of the 15 ECOWAS member states can enter Nigeria without a visa for unlimited stays under the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol. Full rights to live, work, and establish businesses.
90 days
Duration
$0
— fee
✅ Key Benefits
✓No visa required for entry
✓Unlimited duration of stay
✓Right to work in Nigeria
✓Right to establish businesses
✓Access to public services
✓Free movement across all 15 ECOWAS countries
✓Can apply for ECOWAS Residence Card for formal work authorization
✓Children can attend public schools
📋 Requirements (4)
•Valid ECOWAS passport or national passport from member state
•ECOWAS Travel Certificate (alternative to passport)
•Passport valid for duration of stay
•Proof of citizenship from ECOWAS member state
📝 Application Process
Embassy Required⏱ Immediate entry upon arrival
1Arrive at any Nigerian port of entry with valid ECOWAS passport or travel certificate
2Present documents to immigration officer
3Receive entry stamp - no visa required
4For extended stays or work, register for ECOWAS Residence Card
Process: ECOWAS nationals may stay indefinitely. For work purposes, apply for ECOWAS Residence Card at local Immigration office.
Renewal: No renewal needed - ECOWAS free movement allows unlimited stays and re-entries.
💡 Pro Tips
•Carry both passport and ECOWAS Travel Certificate if available
•Keep copies of documents separate from originals
•For employment, register for ECOWAS Residence Card at nearest Immigration office
•Niger currently has travel restrictions due to political situation
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Tourist
Tourism e-Visa (F5A)
Electronic visa for tourism, family visits, and short stays. New automated system launched March 2025 with 24-48 hour approvals. Valid for single entry up to 90 days.
90 days
Duration
$160
— fee
+$150 additional
✅ Key Benefits
✓24-48 hour processing with new automated system
✓Fully online application process
✓No embassy visit required
✓Valid for tourism, family visits, leisure activities
✓Can explore Nigeria's diverse attractions
✓Access to domestic flights and transport
📋 Requirements (7)
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Passport bio-data page scan
•Recent passport-size photograph (digital)
•Return flight ticket or itinerary
•Proof of accommodation in Nigeria (hotel booking or host address)
•Apply at least 1 week before travel despite fast processing
•Ensure all document scans are clear and legible
•Keep digital copies of all documents on your phone
•Have proof of onward travel ready at immigration
•Consider travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage
•Register with your embassy if staying extended period
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
business
Business e-Visa (F4A/F4B)
Electronic visa for business meetings, conferences, contract negotiations, and trade activities. Single entry (F4A) or multiple entry (F4B) options available. Does not permit employment.
90 days
Duration
$160
— fee
+$350 additional
✅ Key Benefits
✓Fast online processing
✓Valid for business meetings, conferences, negotiations
✓Multiple entry option (F4B) for frequent travelers
✓Can attend trade fairs and exhibitions
✓Network with Nigerian business community
✓Explore partnership opportunities
📋 Requirements (9)
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Passport bio-data page scan
•Recent passport-size photograph
•Invitation letter from Nigerian company stating purpose and duration
•Certificate of Incorporation of inviting Nigerian company
•Return flight ticket
•Proof of accommodation
•Company letter from employer (if applicable)
•Bank statement showing sufficient funds
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application⏱ 24-72 hours for standard processing
1Visit portal.immigration.gov.ng and create account
2Select Business Visa (F4A for single entry or F4B for multiple entry)
3Complete application with business visit details
4Upload invitation letter from Nigerian host company
5Upload company registration documents of Nigerian host
•Request detailed invitation letter stating specific business activities
•Multiple entry (F4B) is more economical for frequent travelers
•Keep copies of host company's CAC registration
•Have host company contact information readily available
•Consider applying through Nigerian representative for faster processing
•Business visa holders can request Visa on Arrival pre-approval for future trips
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Work
STR Visa + CERPAC (Work Permit)
Long-term work authorization for expatriates employed in Nigeria. Subject to Regularization (STR) visa leads to Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC), valid 1-2 years and renewable.
90 days
Duration
$2,800
— fee
+$1,150 additional
✅ Key Benefits
✓Full legal authorization to live and work in Nigeria
✓Valid for 1-2 years, renewable
✓Can open Nigerian bank account
✓Can register for NIN (National Identification Number)
✓Path to permanent residency after 5+ years
✓Family members can apply as dependents
✓Multiple re-entry permitted
✓Can conduct all employment activities
📋 Requirements (11)
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Approved Expatriate Quota for position
•Employment offer letter and acceptance
•Contract of employment
•Educational qualifications and certifications
•Professional references
•Police clearance certificate from home country
•Medical examination report
•Passport photographs
•Completed immigration forms (IMM 22)
•Board resolution for director positions
📝 Application Process
Embassy Required⏱ 4-8 weeks for STR visa; additional 4-6 weeks for CERPAC processing
1Nigerian employer applies for Expatriate Quota from Federal Ministry of Interior
2Upon quota approval, employer initiates STR visa process
3Applicant submits documents to Nigerian Embassy with STR application
4Embassy issues STR visa (single entry, 90 days validity)
5Enter Nigeria with STR visa and sealed document packet
6Employer submits CERPAC application to Nigeria Immigration Service
7Complete biometric capture at NIS
8Receive temporary CERPAC receipt (allows work while card is processed)
9Collect CERPAC card and register for NIN (National Identification Number)
Process: CERPAC renewal must be initiated 90 days before expiry. Submit application through employer with updated documents and renewal fee.
Renewal: CERPAC is renewable annually (or bi-annually). Employer must maintain valid Expatriate Quota for position.
💡 Pro Tips
•Ensure employer has approved Expatriate Quota before starting process
•Start process 3 months before intended relocation
•Keep original documents safe - packet must be sealed from embassy
•Do not leave Nigeria after arrival until CERPAC receipt is issued
•Complete NIN registration as soon as possible
•Consider engaging immigration consultant for first-time applicants
•Note: Expatriate Employee Levy ($10,000-$15,000) was suspended but may be reactivated
Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Tourist
Pre-approved visa collected at Nigerian airport for business travelers, African Union nationals, and those from countries without Nigerian diplomatic missions. Requires online pre-approval before travel.
90d
Duration
$160
— fee
+$50 additional
📍Apply: On Arrival
⏱48-72 hours for pre-approval
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
VOA feePaid online during pre-approval or at airport
$160—
Additional (estimated)
Express processingFor faster pre-approval
$50—
Required Total
$160—
+ Additional (estimated)
$50—
Estimated Total
$210—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.
📋 Requirements
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Pre-approval letter from Nigeria Immigration Service
•Return flight ticket
•Proof of accommodation in Nigeria
•Invitation letter (for business visitors)
•Evidence of sufficient funds
•Yellow fever vaccination certificate
📝 Application Steps
1Have Nigerian representative or host company apply on your behalf at voa.immigration.gov.ng
2Alternatively, apply directly online with required documents
3Submit passport copy, return ticket, accommodation proof, invitation letter
4Pay VOA fee online
5Receive pre-approval letter via email (DO NOT travel without this)
6Arrive at Lagos or Abuja International Airport
7Proceed to VOA desk with pre-approval letter
8Complete biometric capture and receive visa stamp
⚠️ Restrictions
•MUST have pre-approval letter before traveling
•Airlines may deny boarding without pre-approval
•Only available at Lagos and Abuja airports
•No work or employment permitted
•Cannot be extended
💡 Tips
•Never travel expecting VOA without pre-approval - you will be denied entry
•Start pre-approval process at least 1 week before travel
•Have Nigerian host apply on your behalf for faster processing
•Print pre-approval letter and keep digital copy
•Carry all supporting documents in hand luggage
•Be prepared for biometric capture at airport
Temporary Work Permit (TWP)
WorkPopular
Short-term work authorization for specialized assignments, equipment installation, training, and technical services. Valid for 90 days, extendable once for 30 days. Requires employer sponsorship.
90d
Duration
$349
— fee
+$500 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱4-8 weeks total (pre-approval + embassy processing)
🔄Extendable +30d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
TWP embassy visa feeEmbassy processing fee, may vary by nationality
$249—
Pre-approval cable feeImmigration Service pre-approval fee
$100—
Additional (estimated)
Agent processing feeIf using immigration consultant
$300—
Work insuranceComprehensive work-related coverage
$200—
Required Total
$349—
+ Additional (estimated)
$500—
Estimated Total
$849—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.
📋 Requirements
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•TWP pre-approval letter (Cablegram) from Nigeria Immigration Service
•Invitation letter from Nigerian host company
•Contract or engagement letter specifying assignment details
•Company profile of Nigerian sponsor
•Proof of technical qualifications or expertise
•Return flight ticket
•Passport photographs
•Completed visa application form (IMM 22)
📝 Application Steps
1Nigerian host company submits pre-approval application to Comptroller General of NIS
2Include invitation letter, contract, company documents
3Pay pre-approval (Cablegram) fee
4NIS issues pre-approval and communicates to Nigerian Embassy
5Applicant visits Nigerian Embassy with pre-approval confirmation
6Submit visa application with all required documents
7Pay embassy visa fee
8Receive TWP visa typically within 72 hours
9Enter Nigeria within visa validity period
⚠️ Restrictions
•Single entry only
•Limited to specific assignment outlined in contract
•Cannot change employer
•Cannot engage in activities outside stated purpose
•Must exit Nigeria upon completion of assignment
•Cannot be converted to CERPAC in-country
💡 Tips
•Start pre-approval process 6-8 weeks before intended travel
•Ensure Nigerian sponsor has complete documentation ready
•Specify exact nature and duration of assignment in contract
•Keep copies of all approval documents
•Apply for extension before original TWP expires
•Consider CERPAC for assignments exceeding 120 days
Multiple Entry Social Visa
Tourist
Long-term visa for frequent visitors with family or social ties to Nigeria. Valid up to 5 years with multiple entries, each stay limited to 180 days. Embassy application required.
180d
Duration
$300
— fee
+$50 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱2-4 weeks at embassy
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
Multiple entry visa feeEmbassy processing fee for 5-year validity
$300—
Additional (estimated)
Document attestationIf required by embassy
$50—
Required Total
$300—
+ Additional (estimated)
$50—
Estimated Total
$350—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.
📋 Requirements
•Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
•Invitation letter from Nigerian host
•Proof of host's immigration status or Nigerian citizenship
•Bank statements showing sufficient funds
•Return flight ticket for first entry
•Proof of ties to home country
•Passport photographs
•Completed visa application form
📝 Application Steps
1Contact Nigerian Embassy in your country for appointment
2Complete visa application form
3Gather invitation letter and host documentation
4Prepare bank statements and proof of funds
5Submit application with all required documents
6Pay visa fee
7Attend interview if required
8Collect visa upon approval
⚠️ Restrictions
•No work or business activities
•Must exit before 180 days each visit
•Requires embassy application (not online)
•Must demonstrate ties to home country
•Cannot convert to work permit
💡 Tips
•Best for those with ongoing family relationships in Nigeria
•Keep records of entries and exits
•Maintain valid return ticket for each entry
•Consider for frequent family visits or attending events
•Embassy processing times vary by location
ECOWAS Residence Card
Special ProgramPopular
Formal residence and work authorization for citizens of ECOWAS member states who wish to live and work long-term in Nigeria. Grants full right to employment without Expatriate Quota.
365d
Duration
$200
— fee
+$100 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱2-4 weeks processing time
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
ECOWAS Residence Card feeSignificantly lower than CERPAC for non-ECOWAS nationals
$200—
Additional (estimated)
Processing assistanceImmigration consultant fee if needed
$100—
Required Total
$200—
+ Additional (estimated)
$100—
Estimated Total
$300—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.
📋 Requirements
•Valid ECOWAS passport or national passport from member state
•Proof of residence in Nigeria
•Passport photographs
•Application letter
•Employment letter or proof of business (if working)
No, Nigeria does not currently have a dedicated digital nomad visa program. However, digital nomads can visit using the Tourism e-Visa (F5A) for up to 90 days or the Business e-Visa for business-related visits. Remote work for foreign clients while on a tourist visa exists in a legal gray area - technically visitors should not engage in any work, but enforcement is minimal for those working remotely for overseas employers and not taking local jobs. For extended stays or full legal compliance, you would need to obtain proper work authorization through the Temporary Work Permit (TWP) or CERPAC process, though these are designed for traditional employment rather than freelance remote work. ECOWAS citizens have full rights to work in Nigeria.
Can I work remotely in Nigeria on a tourist visa?
Working remotely for foreign clients while on a tourist visa in Nigeria is technically not permitted, as tourist visas do not authorize any form of work. However, in practice, many digital nomads work remotely without issues as enforcement focuses on those taking local Nigerian jobs. You cannot be employed by Nigerian companies or conduct business activities that compete with local workers. For full legal compliance, consider the Business e-Visa for short business visits, or the Temporary Work Permit (TWP) for assignments up to 120 days. ECOWAS nationals have full work rights and can register for an ECOWAS Residence Card. If you plan to stay long-term and work, the proper route is through employer-sponsored CERPAC.
What is the cost of living for digital nomads in Lagos and Abuja?
The cost of living varies significantly between cities. In Lagos, expect to spend $749-1,500 per month as a digital nomad, with rent for a 1-bedroom apartment ranging from NGN 600,000-1,200,000 annually ($400-800/month in expat-friendly areas like Lekki, Victoria Island, or Ikoyi). Abuja is generally 40-70% more expensive than Lagos, with similar apartments costing NGN 1,000,000-2,000,000 annually. Monthly expenses include: groceries NGN 100,000-200,000 ($65-130), local transport NGN 30,000-50,000 ($20-35), coworking space NGN 30,000-85,000 ($20-55), dining out NGN 50,000-100,000 ($35-65). Internet/mobile data costs around NGN 30,000-50,000 monthly. Generator fuel is an additional expense due to unreliable power. Earning in USD/EUR provides significant purchasing power advantage.
How good is internet connectivity for remote work in Nigeria?
Internet connectivity in Nigeria has improved significantly but remains inconsistent. In major cities like Lagos and Abuja, you can expect mobile 4G speeds averaging 17-44 Mbps (MTN is the leading provider), with 5G rolling out in select areas since 2022. Fixed broadband averages around 30 Mbps but coverage is limited. Coworking spaces like CcHUB, Workstation, and Impact Hub Lagos offer reliable high-speed WiFi (50-100+ Mbps). Main providers are MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile. A monthly data plan costs NGN 8,000-20,000 ($5-13) for 10-50GB. Starlink is available as a premium backup option. Power outages are common, so most businesses and coworking spaces have generators. For critical video calls, consider having multiple network options as a backup.
What are the best areas for digital nomads in Lagos?
The best areas for digital nomads in Lagos include: Victoria Island (VI) - the business and entertainment hub with the highest concentration of coworking spaces, restaurants, and nightlife; Lekki Phase 1 - popular with expats and young professionals, home to V8 Valley and other tech hubs, more affordable than VI; Ikoyi - upscale residential area, quieter than VI, close to business districts; and Yaba - known as the "Silicon Valley of Nigeria" where CcHUB and many tech startups are located, more affordable and vibrant tech community. For work-friendly cafes, try Cafe One (multiple locations), Terra Kulture (VI), or The Yellow Chilli. Most digital nomads prefer the Island (VI/Lekki/Ikoyi) for safety and amenities, though prices are higher than mainland areas.
How can I open a bank account in Nigeria as a foreigner?
Opening a bank account as a foreigner in Nigeria is challenging and typically requires residence status. Requirements include: valid passport, Combined Expatriate Residence Permit (CERPAC) or ECOWAS Residence Card, proof of address in Nigeria, Bank Verification Number (BVN) enrollment, two bank references from existing Nigerian account holders, employer letter or proof of income, and passport photographs. Major banks accepting foreigners include Zenith Bank, GTBank, Access Bank, First Bank, and UBA. Most require in-person visits and the process takes 1-2 weeks. For digital nomads without CERPAC, alternatives include: using international services like Wise or Revolut, opening a domiciliary (foreign currency) account which may have fewer requirements, or using mobile money services. Many expats maintain foreign accounts and use ATMs or exchange bureaus for naira.
What are the healthcare options for expats in Nigeria?
Nigeria's healthcare system is divided between underfunded public facilities and better-equipped private hospitals. For expats, private healthcare is strongly recommended. Quality private hospitals in Lagos include Reddington Hospital, Lagoon Hospital (now St. Nicholas Hospital), and ISOS Clinic; in Abuja, try Kelina Hospital or Nisa Premier Hospital. Costs: private doctor visit NGN 15,000-50,000 ($10-35), specialist consultation NGN 30,000-100,000 ($20-65). International health insurance is essential as serious cases often require medical evacuation to South Africa or Europe. Recommended insurers: Allianz, Cigna Global, Bupa, AXA, and SafetyWing for nomads. Local HMOs exist but may have limited coverage. Pharmacies are widely available but verify medication authenticity. Bring any prescription medications you need as quality can vary.
How does ECOWAS free movement work for accessing Nigeria?
Under the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol, citizens of the 15 member states (Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cote d'Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo) can enter Nigeria without a visa using a valid national passport or ECOWAS Travel Certificate. ECOWAS nationals have full rights to: stay indefinitely, work without a work permit or Expatriate Quota, establish businesses, and access public services. For formal employment, registration for an ECOWAS Residence Card at the Nigeria Immigration Service is recommended - this costs around $200 and provides official documentation of work rights. Note: Niger is currently suspended from ECOWAS due to political situation, and travel restrictions may apply. The ECOWAS Residence Card is significantly cheaper than CERPAC for non-ECOWAS nationals ($200 vs $2,000).
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Important Disclaimer
Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 4, 2025