For foreign professionals taking up long-term employment in Nigeria via Nigerian-registered employer; requires expatriate quota, offer letter, and multiple visa/documentation steps.
Mid-career professionals with a job offer and relevant qualifications
Freelancers without employer sponsorship or those without recognised qualifications
Requires expatriate quota approval which can be revoked; compliance enforcement campaigns with $15/day overstay fines; employer-specific work rights with no job mobility
At a Glance
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18+ |
| Education Required | Bachelor's degree |
| Profession Required | Yes |
| Experience Required | 2 years in field |
| Job Offer Required | Yes |
| Sponsorship Required | Yes |
| Language Required | English (B2) |
| License / Recognition Required | Yes |
| Remote Income Allowed | No |
| Business Activity Required | No |
| Health Insurance Required | Yes |
| Proof of Funds Required | Yes |
| Can Apply From Abroad | Yes |
Financial Requirements
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum Income | €4,000/monthly |
| Minimum Salary | €48,000/year |
| Minimum Savings | €5,000 |
| Application Fee | €200 |
| Est. Total Relocation Cost | €3,500 |
Application Timeline
Family & Rights
| Right | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Allowed | Yes |
| Spouse Can Work | No |
| Children Allowed | Yes |
| Work Rights | employer-specific |
| Renewable | Yes |
| Time to Permanent Residency | 15 years |
| Time to Citizenship | 15 years |
Related Pathways
Cost of Living
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa?
For foreign professionals taking up long-term employment in Nigeria via Nigerian-registered employer; requires expatriate quota, offer letter, and multiple visa/documentation steps.
Who is the Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa best for?
This pathway is best suited for: Mid-career professionals with a job offer and relevant qualifications.
Who should not apply for the Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa?
This pathway is not ideal for: Freelancers without employer sponsorship or those without recognised qualifications.
What are the financial requirements for the Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa?
Applicants need minimum income of €4,000/monthly, minimum salary of €48,000/year, minimum savings of €5,000. Additional costs may include the application fee and relocation expenses.
How long does it take to process the Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa?
Processing typically takes 30 to 60 days. Times may vary based on nationality, completeness of documentation, and current processing volumes.
Can I bring my family on the Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa?
Yes, this pathway allows family members including dependents.
Can the Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa lead to permanent residency or citizenship?
Yes. Holders of this visa can work toward permanent residency in approximately 15 years and citizenship in approximately 15 years, subject to meeting residence and other conditions.
What are the known issues with the Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa?
Known issues and warnings: Requires expatriate quota approval which can be revoked; compliance enforcement campaigns with $15/day overstay fines; employer-specific work rights with no job mobility. We recommend checking the official source for the latest updates.
Are there alternative pathways to Nigeria?
Yes. Nigeria offers 5 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our Nigeria country page.
What is the cost of living in Nigeria?
Monthly costs for a single person in city center: Lagos: €1,100/month; Abuja: €950/month; Port Harcourt: €820/month. These include rent, groceries, transport, and utilities.
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Get Your Free VerdictOfficial source: https://interior.gov.ng/visa-policy/