E-Visa: Nigerian govt processes over 14,000 applications within 6 weeks

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The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reported notable progress in the implementation of Nigeria’s electronic visa system, which officially launched on May 1. Within the first six weeks of operation, over 14,000 visa applications were successfully processed.

Tunji-Ojo made this disclosure on Monday during a stakeholder engagement workshop focused on new innovations in immigration, held at the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) headquarters in Abuja.

He also revealed that the electronic Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (e-CERPAC) and the digital Temporary Work Permit (TWP) are scheduled to go live within the next week.

“I can tell you within the first six weeks of the e-visa, we were able to process over 14,000 visa applications. Within six weeks. So, that by any standard in the world, is a pass mark. It is a huge one and, of course, those little hitches, I tell you, within the next one to two weeks, will be history. We will correct them.

“We are already working. Even yesterday in my house, the CGIS was there. Technological partners were in my house. The DCG visa was in my house. All of us in my house. We worked for hours yesterday, Sunday, even in my conference room at home. We were working because we understand when you are in the process of innovation, there is no room, there is no opportunity for you to close your eyes. You must make sure it works. We are ready for the challenge,” he said.

The minister explained that the federal government introduced the e-visa system as more than just a migration tool—it’s also intended to support national economic growth.

He noted that Nigeria’s enhanced e-border technology has significantly strengthened its national security framework, particularly at the borders.

Commenting on the e-CERPAC and TWP, Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the misuse of TWP to bypass CERPAC regulations would no longer be tolerated. He also highlighted the cost-saving benefits of transitioning to digital passport processing, revealing that Nigeria now saves about one billion Naira annually due to the termination of contracts related to manual data archiving.

Also speaking at the event, the Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, outlined key digital upgrades recently introduced by the Service. She noted that the new visa process includes several advanced features, such as the e-Visa Application Channel, e-CERPAC, digital Landing and Exit Cards, and the revamped Temporary Work Permit system.

“The already installed e-Gates at our major Airports and commissioned Command and Control Centre are positioned to house and harness these technologies. These digital solutions leverage technology to streamline processes, enhance security, and improve the overall experience for travellers and stakeholders”, she explained.

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The Immigration boss maintained that the e-Visa system allows for seamless online applications, eliminating the need for physical visits to immigration offices.

“The e-CERPAC integrates residence permits into a digital document, simplifying processes for foreign nationals residing in Nigeria. Our Temporary Work Permit has also been digitized, reducing processing times and increasing efficiency”, she added.

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