When you finish reading this, you’ll know exactly which documents you need, how to apply—whether online or on arrival—ways to avoid common rejections, plus insights on Nigeria’s top attractions, health rules, recent policy changes and how Nigeria’s process stacks up against its neighbors.
What Is the Nigeria Tourist Visa?
A Nigeria Tourist Visa grants you entry for leisure visits, cultural events, family gatherings or vacation stays. It’s issued as single-entry or multiple-entry, valid typically for 30 to 90 days per visit.
Nigeria’s Visa on Arrival (VoA) Program
You may qualify for VoA if you hold a confirmed hotel booking or Invitation Letter and arrive on certain international carriers.
– Eligibility: Nationals of select countries (see the Immigration Service’s tourist visa page for the full list)
– Application: Complete an online pre-approval form, pay the fee, present your approval slip on arrival
– Limitations: Single entry only, must arrive via Lagos or Abuja airports
Essential Requirements & Step-by-Step Application
To make sure your application sails through, assemble these core items:
- Valid passport (≥ 6 months beyond travel date)
- Two recent passport-style photos (white background)
- Proof of funds (bank statement ≥ USD 200/day)
- Return flight itinerary
- Hotel reservation or Invitation Letter
- Completed visa application form (online or paper)
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Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
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Fill out the online form at the Nigeria Immigration Service portal.
- Pay the nonrefundable visa fee of USD 160 for single entry.
- Book and attend your biometrics appointment at the consulate or Visa Application Centre.
- Allow for a processing time of 5–7 business days.
- Attend an interview if requested.
- Receive your visa approval and prepare for travel.
Special Provisions for Minors & Groups
- Minors under 18 need parental consent letters and birth certificates.
- For group applications (≥ 3 travelers), provide a covering letter detailing group purpose and coordinator contact.
Health & Safety Prerequisites
Beyond Yellow Fever, Nigeria may require:
– Polio booster (for travelers from polio-endemic regions)
– COVID-19 vaccination or negative PCR test (subject to current Ministry of Health rules; see the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control’s guidelines)
Check the World Health Organization’s travel health notices for the latest updates before departure.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Many visa refusals happen because of:
– Incomplete or inconsistent documents
– Insufficient proof of funds
– Expired or damaged passports
– Missing vaccination certificates
Tip: Review your entire application with a checklist before submission to minimize errors.
“A thorough pre-application review cuts refusal rates by up to 30%,” says Jane Okoro, former visa officer at the Nigerian Embassy in London.
Nigeria’s Tourism Trends & Must-See Highlights
Nigeria has seen inbound tourism climb steadily. According to World Bank data, it recorded over 2 million international arrivals in 2019. Festivals and parks drive much of this interest:
- Argungu Fishing Festival (Kebbi State)
- Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Yankari National Park (Bauchi State)
- Lagos Carnival
Security advisories from various governments can temporarily dampen applications, so monitor travel warnings before booking.
How Agencies & Digitalization Are Changing the Game
Travel agencies and visa-facilitation services handle document review, form filling and courier services. In 2022, Nigeria launched a pilot e-visa platform allowing fully digital submissions for select countries; see the Premium Times report on the pilot e-visa rollout for detailed coverage.
How Nigeria’s Tourist Visa Compares in West Africa
Country Visa Type Avg Processing Fee (Single)
Nigeria Consular & VoA 5–7 days USD 160
Ghana E-Visa & On-Arrival 3–5 days USD 100
Senegal E-Visa 2–3 days EUR 50
Nigeria’s fee sits on the higher end, but VoA can be more convenient than pre-approval routes in neighboring states.
Your Next Steps to Nigerian Adventure
Now that you’ve got every detail—from document checklists to insider tips—your trip planning can move forward with confidence. Assemble your files, confirm health requirements, and watch your inbox for that visa approval. Before you know it, you’ll be exploring Nigeria’s rich culture and landscapes firsthand.