Entry Requirements

Entering the Federal Republic of Nigeria requires you to meet certain requirements depending on your nationality and the type of stay.

Yellow Fever Vaccination

Proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required to enter the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Visa Requirements

• The following countries do not require a visa and will be granted permission for a short-term stay on arrival: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
• Nationals from all other countries must apply for a visa.

Applying for a Visa

• You can apply for an e-visa or apply for a standard visa from a Nigerian embassy or consulate.
  
• To apply for an e-visa, visit the Nigerian Immigration Service website and select “Sign In” and then “Sign up using OpenID”.
  
• Next, verify your e-mail, log in to the system, and click “Create New Application”.
  
• Fill out the form accurately with all required details, including your full name, nationality, passport number, purpose of visit, proposed date of visit, proposed port of entry, flight itinerary, and hotel address in Nigeria.
  
• Upload scanned copies of your passport data page, airline return ticket, visa invitation letter, and any other required documents.
  
• Pay the visa fee online. Cash payments are not accepted. For debit or credit card payments, make sure that the card holder’s name matches the visa application’s name.
  
• Ensure that you print any payment receipt and acknowledgement slip, as these may be required upon arrival. 
  
• Upon arrival, present your pre-approved visa letter, payment confirmation, passport, and other required documents to the immigration officer. 
  
• If you have any challenges, please contact sec@afpif.org for assistance.

Flying Tips

• We recommend booking flights which arrive in the evening or night in order to avoid the traffic in Lagos.
• Some airlines will not allow you to board your flight to Nigeria unless you have a return or onward ticket which they can verify. Ensure that you bring all relevant documentation related to your onward journey, especially if you depart via a different airline.
• Wireless Internet is available at the Lagos airport though service is not guaranteed.
• There will be an AfPIF team at the airport to welcome you with an AfPIF sign.
• Do not take services from unknown individuals at Lagos airport that insist on helping you carry your luggage or perform other tasks.

On the Ground

Cash Is King

While most major credit cards are accepted by hotels and restaurants, payment systems can be unreliable. Cash is more widely accepted and we recommend carrying local currency (Nigerian Naira). Currency exchange services are available in the airport, most hotels, and malls. ATMs are also available for cash withdrawals.

Telecommunications

You can buy a local SIM card for voice and data at the Lagos airport and throughout the city. Identification is required for purchase.

Transportation

• Ride-sharing apps are available including Uber and Bolt.
• Never underestimate the traffic in Lagos. Prepare for unexpected delays when moving throughout the city.

Security

• Watch out for pickpockets in the streets, especially in markets and other popular locations. Avoid carrying items in your back pockets.
• Keep mobile phones and bags away from open windows when traveling in vehicles throughout the city.
• Try to avoid carrying anything that you cannot afford to lose.
• Consider carrying a photocopy of your identification documents instead of the originals.
• Stay informed of local travel advisories and take precautions where necessary.

Climate

Dress to stay cool and dry! AfPIF takes place during the rainy season when average temperatures range between 24°C (75°F) and 30°C (86°F) with high humidity.

Health

• We recommend bringing mosquito repellent.
• Malaria and measles are present in Nigeria. Please consult your doctor to discuss measles vaccination, if you wish to take preventative malaria medication, or if you have any other health issues before visiting Nigeria.
• Malaria can take weeks to manifest. If you suspect that you have contracted Malaria while in Nigeria or following your stay, please urgently seek medical attention.
• Malaria treatments are available at pharmacies in Lagos in case you wish to leave Nigeria with an emergency supply.
• Avoid water sold in sachets or plastic bags. It is preferable to drink bottled water.