Hey guys I’ve been writing about different places to visit within Africa and Nigeria. If you’re a foreigner wanting to visit Nigeria and explore these places, you will have to apply for Nigeria tourist visa, and I’m sure you’re curious on how it works.
This blog would guide on how to apply for Nigeria tourist visa from outside Nigeria. This way, you can start making your holiday plans! . Also, you can check out our detailed travel resources page for cheap flight tickets, how to earn cash back and e-sims that you need. I highly recommend you use e-sim from Airalo as a tourist looking to visit Nigeria.
You don’t need to get a Nigerian sim as tourist. If you’re going to be staying in Nigeria long term, you can also be comfortable. If you need where to stay in Nigeria, I highly recommend Jade’s court. This hotel gives you feel of Luxury on a budget. I enjoyed my stay at Jade’s court, and I know a tourist will find it suitable.
Is it safe to travel to Nigeria? Of course, yes. I am living in Nigeria comfortably irrespective of what the media says. However, I don’t recommend you visit the Northern cities or states as there is unrest in most of these cities. Check our detailed travel advisory for Nigeria to learn more about the country and all you need to know.
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How to apply for Nigeria Tourist Visa
Nigeria is visa free for most West African countries as well as countries under Ecowas. As a Nigerian, irrespective of the hardship, our passport is getting stronger.
You can visit up to 45 countries with your Nigerian passport Visa free or Visa on arrival.
Also, if you’re yet to apply for Nigerian passport, check out our post on how to apply for a Nigerian passport.
Now back to foreigners looking to visit Nigeria whether from US, UK or other European countries, you may need a visa.
So, here are the steps you need to apply for Nigeria tourist visa as a foreigner.
Determine Your Visa Type
What are you coming to Nigeria for? I’m hoping you want to explore and have a feel of Nigerian culture.
Before starting any visa application process, you need to determine your visa type. For example, if you’re coming to Nigeria for business or visa, the visa you get shouldn’t be a tourist visa.
But if you’re coming for tourism, sightseeing, or to visit friends and family, a tourist visa is the right visa to get.
Gather Required Documents
Once you have determined the visa type you need, the next step is to start gathering the necessary documents you need for the process.
To apply for a Nigerian tourist visa, you’ll need to gather the following documents:
- A valid passport: Irrespective of your origin, you will need a passport to apply for a Nigerian visa. This passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Nigeria. Additionally, it should have at least two blank pages.
- Passport-size photographs: To complete the visa procedure, you will also need to submit two recent passport-size photographs. These photographs should be recent to avoid issues.
- Flight itinerary: You will need to show proof of your trip through your flight details. This gives an idea of how long you plan on spending in Nigeria.
- Proof of accommodation: Asides from flight details, you would also need to share proof of accommodation so they know that you have a place to stay when you get to Nigeria. If you are staying with friends and family, you will need an invitation letter from your host in Nigeria, including their addresses and contact information. However, if you would stay in a hotel, you need the reservation details. Sometimes, you may be lucky to get hotels where you can book on hold and share the reservation details. If you’re on a budget, check out these hotel alternatives to book your stay.
- Proof of funds: You would also need to share bank statements or other financial documents proving you have enough funds to cover your stay in Nigeria.
- Yellow fever vaccination: Another important document would be your yellow fever vaccination certificate. Nigeria requires all travellers to have a yellow fever vaccination.
Complete the Online Application
You can fill out the visa application form on the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) website or at the Nigerian embassy or consulate in your country.
When you go to the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) website, navigate to the visa application section to get the form.
Then, complete the online visa application form (Form IMM22) with accurate and up-to-date information. After completing the form, print out the confirmation page.
Pay the Visa Fee
The visa fee varies depending on your nationality, the type of visa you are applying for, and the number of entries you desire. This information you can find on the NIS website.
Once you finish filling your visa application form, you can pay the fee online through the NIS portal or at the Nigerian embassy or consulate.
Importantly, keep the payment receipt as you will need it for your application.
Schedule an Appointment
After paying the visa fee, schedule an appointment at the nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate. Appointments are typically required for submitting your documents and biometrics (fingerprinting and photograph).
Submit Your Application
On the day of your appointment, bring all the required documents to the Nigerian embassy or consulate. You may also need to provide additional documents if requested. Submit your completed application form, supporting documents, and biometric information.
Attend an Interview (if required)
In some cases, you may be required to attend an interview as part of the visa application process. During the interview, you may be asked about your travel plans, purpose of visit, and other relevant details.
Wait for Processing
Visa processing times can vary, but it generally takes between 5 to 15 business days. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow sufficient time for processing.
Collect Your Visa
Once your visa is approved, you will be notified to collect your passport with the visa sticker affixed. Ensure to check all details on the visa to confirm accuracy.
If you plan on visiting Nigeria, I would advise that you plan ahead and start your application process early. This helps to avoid last-minute issues. There are better chances of getting your visa when you apply early.
It also helps to always double-check requirements as visa requirements can change. So, always verify the latest information from the Nigerian embassy or consulate in your country.
I know that you will enjoy visiting Nigeria and I can’t wait for you to share your experiences!
Are you planning to visit Nigeria soonest. Which of these steps to apply for Nigeria tourist visa have you done? Feel free to comment below. Ciao for now.