Key Requirements and Guidance on Entering Nigeria
1. The ECOWAS Rule
Attendees from any of the 15 ECOWAS member states do not need a visa.
- Requirement: A valid National Passport or ECOWAS Travel Certificate.
- Stay: Usually permitted for up to 90 days.
2. The e-Visa (Short Visit / Business)
For most international attendees (US, UK, EU, and non-ECOWAS African countries), the Business Single-Entry Visa (F4A) is the standard choice for conferences.
| Feature | Requirement/Detail |
| Where to Apply | Strictly through the official Nigeria Immigration Portal. |
| Approval Time | Usually 24–48 hours via email once submitted. |
| Key Documents | Valid Passport (6 months+), Return Ticket, and Hotel Reservation. |
| Critical Item | Letter of invitation/conference attendance. |
| Format | You will receive an e-Visa Approval Letter with a QR code. Attendees must print this and bring it with them. |
3. Health & Mandatory Entry Forms
Nigeria has moved to a "Digital First" border. Every attendee—regardless of visa status—must complete these before landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS):
- Nigeria Health Declaration Form: Must be filled out online via the NCDC portal.
- Yellow Fever Certificate: This is mandatory. Travelers must have a valid "Yellow Card" (International Certificate of Vaccination). If they do not have one, they may be vaccinated (and charged) at the airport or denied entry.
- Digital Landing/Exit Cards: A new requirement in 2026; these are linked to the e-visa and should be completed on the immigration portal before travel “https://immigration.gov.ng”.
4. Pro-Tips
- Conference invitation/ attendance: Be ready to present your conference invitation letter to avoid being stuck.
- Visa fees: Fees vary significantly by nationality due to "reciprocity." You are advised to check the fee schedule on the Nigeria Immigration Service portal.
- No stickers: For e-Visas, there is no physical sticker placed in the passport before travel. The "Approval Letter" is the ticket onto the plane.
Warning: Avoid "Visa Assistance" third-party websites that look official but charge 3x the price. Only use the: https://immigratio.gov.ng domain.