NIS begins post-amnesty registration for foreigners with expired visas October 13

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced the commencement of a Post-Amnesty Voluntary Return and Documentation Programme (PAVRDP) for foreign nationals who failed to take advantage of the recently concluded Expired Visa Initiative (Amnesty), which ended on September 30, 2025.

In a statement by AS Akinlabi, Service Public Relations Officer, the NIS said the new post-amnesty programme will take effect from October 13, 2025, and is designed to provide a structured and humane opportunity for undocumented foreigners to regularize their stay or voluntarily exit the country in line with Nigerian immigration laws.

According to the statement, affected individuals are required to report to the nearest Immigration Command for registration and documentation, where each case will be assessed individually to determine the appropriate course of action under the Immigration Act, 2015, and related regulations.

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The Service, however, warned that any foreigner who violates the conditions of their visa and fails to report for documentation will face arrest, detention, and removal from Nigeria, in addition to long-term entry bans.

“The public is reminded that aiding and harbouring illegal immigrants constitutes an offence under Nigerian law.

“Companies, organizations, and individuals are therefore advised to desist from such acts to avoid prosecution”, the statement added.

The NIS also cautioned that breaches related to the conditions of stay or regularization are punishable offenses, urging full cooperation from the public and the expatriate community to support lawful migration management.

Reiterating its commitment to humane and effective migration control, the Service emphasized that the new initiative aligns with its mandate to promote seamless and orderly migration, ensure compliance with immigration laws, and strengthen national security through improved border and residency management.