By: Akua Oteng Amponsah
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced that it will start enforcing strict measures against foreigners who have overstayed their visas or breached immigration rules.
This decision comes after the Federal Government’s visa amnesty program expired on September 30, 2025.
The amnesty program, which began on July 5, 2025, allowed foreign nationals with expired documents to regularize their status without facing penalties.
However, now that the program has ended, the NIS says it will start targeting individuals who have not complied with immigration regulations.
According to the NIS, foreigners who have overstayed their visas will face sanctions, including deportation, fines, and restrictions on future entry into the country.
The penalties will be based on the length of overstay, with the following framework:
– Less than 3 months: deportation, $15 daily fine, or a 2-year entry ban
– 3 months to 1 year: deportation, $15 daily fine, or a 5-year entry ban
– Over 1 year: deportation and a 10-year or permanent entry ban
The NIS emphasized that the enforcement is aimed at maintaining lawfulness, national security, and transparency in the country’s immigration system.
In the words of the NIS, “The Service will ensure that all foreign nationals comply with the immigration laws of Nigeria.” The agency is determined to ensure that foreigners adhere to the rules and regulations governing their stay in the country.
