Renew, extend or replace a Nigeria visa (2026)
If you are already in Nigeria on a visa that is running out, or you need to stay longer than it allows, you cannot simply re-enter on the same approval — Nigeria’s e-Visa cannot be extended, and the routes depend on why you are staying. This guide explains how visa extension and regularisation actually work through the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), what to do if you have overstayed or lost your visa, and how to avoid the penalties that now apply.
Important: the single-entry e-Visa cannot be extended, and since 1 September 2025 Nigeria charges overstay penalties (a daily fee, with longer overstays risking entry bans). If your stay is running out, act before the expiry date — not after.
Honest note: RenewPapers is not the Nigeria Immigration Service. Extensions and regularisation are granted by the NIS. What we do is work out the correct route for your situation, prepare the application and supporting letters, and submit it in time so you stay lawful.
Your situation decides the route
- Short visit, need a little longer — a visa/stay extension is applied for at the NIS before your current permission expires, with a reason and supporting documents.
- Staying to work or reside — this is not an “extension” but regularisation: an STR visa and CERPAC route. Start it early.
- Already overstayed — regularise as soon as possible; overstay fees accrue daily and a long overstay can mean a ban.
- Lost your visa/approval — for an e-Visa the approval is electronic and can be re-retrieved; the real risk is a lost passport (see below).
What do you need to do?
How extension / regularisation works
- Confirm the correct route for your reason to stay (visit extension vs STR/CERPAC).
- Prepare supporting documents (invitation/employer letters, proof of funds, passport).
- Apply to the NIS before the current permission lapses; pay the official fee.
- Keep evidence of the pending application while it is processed.
Timing is everything. Nigeria treats the expiry date strictly. Start an extension or regularisation well before your stay ends — a pending application is far better than an overstay.
Visa running out in Nigeria?
Tell us why you need to stay and how long is left. We will confirm the right route, prepare the application and letters, and submit it in time — so you stay lawful and avoid overstay penalties.
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