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Recent reforms by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) have introduced stricter rules around e-Visas, mandatory entry (landing) and exit cards, and harsh penalties for non-compliance. These changes affect both foreign visitors and expatriates—especially in terms of cost. It’s essential to understand the new landscape so you can budget better, avoid unnecessary fines, and travel smoothly.
E-Visa system fully digitized: As of May 1, 2025, the visa-on-arrival option has been discontinued. All visa applications are done online, under the new Short Visit Visa (SVV) regime, with 13 visa categories available. Applications are processed within ~48 hours, and approved visas are delivered with QR codes via email.
Automated landing & exit cards introduced: Manual embarkation/disembarkation cards have been replaced with digital forms. All inbound non-Nigerian passport holders must fill out an online landing card before boarding, and outbound passengers must complete an exit card before departure.
Overstay penalties tightened: From September 1, 2025, foreign nationals who stay past their visa validity will incur a USD $15 daily fine. Overstays of 3 months or more can lead to a 5-year entry ban; over a year can result in a permanent ban or long-term blacklisting. Airlines and carriers held accountable: Airlines carrying passengers without valid visas, or those who fail to ensure entry/exit/landing cards are completed, face penalties. From August 1, 2025, enforcement of card requirements becomes stricter.
Here are some of the financial implications travelers should be aware of:
| Expense Area | What’s Changed | Potential Extra Cost / Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Application | Must apply ahead of travel online. No more Visa on Arrival as of May 30, 2025. (The Telegraph Nigeria) | If you forget, you may pay more or be forced to use costly expedited or agent fees. |
| Landing & Exit Cards | Must complete online before travel. Airlines may deny boarding if not done. (The Telegraph Nigeria) | Missing these could result in denied boarding (losing ticket cost), or fines. |
| Overstay Fines & Bans | $15/day fine + bans for continuous violation. (enews.com.ng) | If you overstay through oversight, you could pay fines that add up quickly. For example, one extra month = ~$450. Also, bans hamper future travel plans. |
| Time Costs | Because visa, card, and documentation must be done correctly before travel, delays in obtaining documents cause extra travel or lodging expenses. | Budget time and maybe small costs for document scanning, courier fees if needed. |
| Airline Penalties / Additional Fees | Airlines may charge more (or refuse service) if you lack required documents. | Hidden costs: rescheduling fees, re-booking, or having to buy a new ticket. |
Tips to Avoid Extra Costs & Travel Stress
To stay on budget and avoid penalties, follow these best practices:
Apply for your e-Visa well in advance — aim at least 1-2 weeks before travel.
Fill mandatory landing/exit cards online ahead of time (via the official portal, e.g. lecard.immigration.gov.ng) so there’s no last-minute rush. The Gazelle News+1
Do not overstay: Respect your visa expiry date. Even 1-2 days can trigger fines.
Keep your documents organized: Passport, visa approval email, landing/exit card confirmation. Hold digital backups.
Use a trusted travel agency: To guide you through all steps, avoid mistakes, and handle technicalities.
While it seems like more rules = more cost, there are ways these reforms can reduce your travel expenses:
Less ambiguity, fewer surprises: You know exactly what’s required, reducing risk of being turned away or fined.
Faster processing: Digital systems often mean less waiting, less need to pay extra for express or agent services.
More transparent fees: Knowing fines in advance helps you plan so you don’t incur large unplanned expenses.
At Links and Tours Ltd., we want your travel to be smooth and cost-effective. Here’s how we assist:
⚙ Full Visa & Documentation Support: We help you fill e-Visa applications, landing/exit cards correctly, avoiding common mistakes.
🔔 Reminder & Alert Services: Before you fly, we’ll send reminders about card completion, visa status, and overstay risks.
📅 Planning for Valid Visa Duration: We advise on choosing the correct visa category for the intended duration so you’re not tempted, or forced, to overstay.
🛂 Travel Checklists: Our clients get pre-departure checklists that include all documentation required to avoid delays or denied boarding.
🚨 Support if Issues Arise: If you encounter trouble with immigration or airlines over documentation, our team intervenes to help resolve.
Nigeria’s immigration rules around e-Visas, landing & exit cards, and overstay penalties are stricter than before—and yes, they can affect your travel budget. But with awareness, early preparation, and trusted guidance, you can avoid fines, reduce unexpected costs, and travel with peace of mind.
Planning a trip soon? Let Links and Tours Ltd. guide you through the changes so you can enjoy your journey, not just endure it.
International travel doesn’t have to be stressful. With over 20 years of experience and full accreditation by NANTA and IATA, Links and Tours Ltd. ensures your travel is seamless, secure, and enjoyable—from takeoff to touchdown.
📞 Contact us today to start planning your next international journey.