Who is eligible for the STR Visa?

The STR Visa is aimed at foreign nationals who have secured employment in Nigeria, particularly for skilled professionals and technical experts working with registered Nigerian companies.

Do I need to have a job offer before applying for the STR Visa?

Yes, you must have a confirmed job offer from a Nigerian employer before you can apply for the STR Visa.

How long does it take to process the STR Visa?

Processing times can vary, but it generally takes between 6-8 weeks from the submission of the pre-approval application to visa issuance, provided all documents are in order.

Can my family accompany me on the STR Visa?

Yes, immediate family members can apply for dependent visas to accompany the primary STR Visa holder. Each family member will need to submit a visa application.

Is a medical examination required?

Yes, a medical report from an accredited hospital confirming that you are in good health and free from contagious diseases is required.

What happens if my STR Visa application is denied?

If your STR Visa application is denied, you will need to address the reasons for denial provided by the Nigerian authorities and may reapply. However, the process and timeline will vary depending on the reason for denial.

Can I change my job once in Nigeria on an STR Visa?

Changing your employer requires you to obtain permission from the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and may involve reapplying for the STR Visa under the new employer.

What documents are needed from my employer?

Your employer needs to provide documents such as the Certificate of Incorporation, Tax Identification Number (TIN), and an official employment letter.

Will I need to register in Nigeria upon arrival?

Yes, you must complete your registration with the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) once you arrive in Nigeria to regularize your residency status.

Can I apply for permanent residency with an STR Visa?

Yes, the STR Visa can be a pathway to applying for permanent residency in Nigeria if you meet the requirements and have resided in Nigeria for the necessary period.

Nigeria Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa Guide

Find out everything you need to know about Nigeria Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa application process and requirements.

What Is the Nigeria Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa?

The Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa for Nigeria is specifically designed for foreign nationals who are looking to live and work in Nigeria on a long-term basis. This visa is particularly suited for expatriates employed by companies registered in Nigeria, highly skilled professionals, and technical experts. The main goal of the STR Visa is to facilitate the legal entry and ongoing residency of skilled professionals, thereby contributing to the workforce and economic growth of Nigeria. Holder of this visa enjoys the benefit of legally working in Nigeria, bringing family members along, and potentially applying for a permanent residency in the future.

Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa Requirements for Nigeria

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa for Nigeria. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

Valid International Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date into Nigeria and should have at least two blank visa pages.
Employment Offer
An official employment letter from a company registered in Nigeria specifying your job role and duration of employment.
Qualification Certificates
Copies of educational certificates and professional qualifications. These may require authentication from relevant authorities.
Company Incorporation Documents
The employing company must provide a copy of their Certificate of Incorporation, TIN, and a copy of the letter of employment acceptance by the employee.
Completed STR Visa Application Form
A duly completed visa application form available on the Nigerian immigration website or at the Nigerian consulate/embassy.
Visa Application Fee
Proof of payment for the visa application fee, which varies depending on nationality and processing speed.
Police Clearance Certificate
A police clearance certificate from your home country to confirm the absence of a criminal record.
Medical Report
A medical report from an accredited hospital stating you are in good health and free from contagious diseases.

How to Apply for Nigeria Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa

Understand the process of applying for an Nigeria Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

Secure Employment in Nigeria
Before applying for an STR Visa, you must have a job offer from a Nigerian company. This includes an official employment letter stating your role and the duration of your employment.
Gather Required Documents
Compile all necessary documents such as your international passport, employment letter, company's CAC registration, and qualification certificates. Ensure these documents are authenticated where required.
Submit Pre-Approval Application to the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS)
The employing company in Nigeria must submit a pre-approval application to the NIS on behalf of the employee. This can be done online through the NIS eCite portal.
Complete STR Visa Application Form
Once pre-approval is obtained, the applicant should fill the STR Visa application form, typically available on the website of the Nigerian embassy or consulate in their home country.
Pay Visa Fees
Submit the necessary visa application fee as prescribed by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS). This fee varies based on nationality and processing speed.
Submit Documents and Attend an Interview
Submit all assembled documents and attend a visa interview at the Nigerian embassy or consulate in your home country if required.
Await Approval and Visa Issuance
After submission and the interview, wait for the Nigerian authorities to process the application. Once approved, the STR Visa will be issued and can be collected from the embassy or consulate.
Arrival in Nigeria and Final Regularization
Upon arrival in Nigeria, the visa holder must complete their registration with the NIS within a stipulated time to formalize their residency status.

Useful Nigeria Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa Resources

Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS)

Federal Ministry of Interior

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Nigerian High Commission

Nigeria Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa Advice

If you're planning to obtain an STR Visa for Nigeria, make sure to have all your documents in perfect order to avoid any delays. It's also a clever idea to start the application process well in advance of your planned move to Nigeria to ensure everything goes smoothly. Reaching out to the Nigerian embassy or consulate for any specific requirements unique to your case can also be very helpful. Always stay informed and check the latest updates on the official websites for any changes in requirements or procedures.

Nigeria Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa Guide

What Is the Nigeria Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa?

Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa Requirements for Nigeria

Valid International Passport

Employment Offer

Qualification Certificates

Company Incorporation Documents

Completed STR Visa Application Form

Visa Application Fee

Police Clearance Certificate

Medical Report

How to Apply for Nigeria Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa

Secure Employment in Nigeria

Gather Required Documents

Submit Pre-Approval Application to the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS)

Complete STR Visa Application Form

Pay Visa Fees

Submit Documents and Attend an Interview

Await Approval and Visa Issuance

Arrival in Nigeria and Final Regularization

Useful Nigeria Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa Resources

Nigeria Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

Nigeria Passport Details and Ranking 2024