Nigeria offers 6 visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals. This page compares all available routes side by side with current requirements.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Visa Programme | Min. Income | Savings | Processing | Difficulty | Family |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa | €4,000/mo | €5,000 | 30-60d | 7/10 | Yes |
| Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) | €4,000/mo | €5,000 | 30-45d | 6/10 | Yes |
| Temporary Work Permit | €3,000/mo | €3,000 | 15-30d | 5/10 | No |
| Business Visa | €2,500/mo | €3,000 | 5-10d | 4/10 | No |
| Investor Visa / Business Residence | — | €100,000 | 30-60d | 7/10 | Yes |
| ECOWAS Residence Card | €1,500/mo | €2,000 | 20-30d | 3/10 | Yes |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many visa pathways does Nigeria offer?
Nigeria offers 6 distinct visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals, including skilled worker, family, investor, and other categories.
What is the easiest visa to get for Nigeria?
The easiest pathway depends on your profile. Working holiday visas (if available) have the lowest barriers. For professionals, employer-sponsored visas are the most common route.
How long does it take to get permanent residency in Nigeria?
The path to permanent residency in Nigeria typically takes 2-5 years depending on the visa category. Some skilled worker pathways offer faster PR routes.
Can I bring my family to Nigeria?
Most long-term visa categories in Nigeria allow family reunification for spouses and dependent children, though specific requirements vary by pathway.
Do I need a job offer to move to Nigeria?
Not all pathways require a job offer. Nigeria may offer self-employment, investment, digital nomad, or points-based pathways that don't require employer sponsorship.
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