Nigeria will automate the process of approving short-term visas

In an attempt to promote tourism and business, Nigeria is automating the approval and issuing of its electronic visas, according to the interior minister.

This technology could put an end to a flourishing sector for intermediaries who assist visitors in navigating the immigration process by working with immigration officials. Its goal is to remove the long wait times that travelers encounter upon arrival.

The proposed idea would allow passengers to apply online for short-stay visas, which would be approved in as little as 24 to 48 hours. The e-visa will be emailed to the applicant’s email upon approval, removing the requirement for a paper sticker at the airport.

Following a department meeting on Tuesday, Nigeria’s interior minister, Olubunmi Ojo, stated on X that the proposed visa policy intends to improve bilateral and multilateral connections with other nations, increase tourism, and make conducting business easier.

Establishing a contactless passport application system for Nigerians overseas, the administration has worked to streamline the passport issuing process for Nigerians and enhance the visa application procedure for foreigners since President Tinubu took office in May 2023.