Nigeria Work Permits & Visas: Employer Guide to Types & Sponsorship

Who Needs a Work Permit in Nigeria

In Nigeria, any foreign national seeking to work within the country needs to obtain a work permit. This includes both expatriates employed by Nigerian companies and foreign nationals transferring from other offices within a multinational company. The requirement for a work permit extends to those employed in positions that cannot be filled by a Nigerian citizen. The Nigerian government aims to balance foreign expertise with local workforce opportunities, so it’s essential for employers to ensure that the appropriate work permits are secured for each employee.

Foreign employees working in technical or managerial roles, those with specialized knowledge, or those filling positions on a temporary or contract basis, typically need work permits. Employers must also ensure they comply with quotas and other restrictions set by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) to avoid penalties.

Types of Work Visas in Nigeria

Nigeria offers a range of work visas tailored to different categories of foreign workers. These visas are designed to meet the needs of employers who require specialized foreign expertise for positions that cannot be filled locally.

There are several key work visa types in Nigeria, each with distinct eligibility criteria and purposes. These include short-term employment visas, long-term visas, and permits specifically for expatriates and technical staff. The following table outlines some of the main work visa types:

Nigerian Employment Visa

The Nigerian Employment Visa is a work visa granted to foreign nationals who have secured employment in Nigeria. This visa is intended for individuals who are hired by a Nigerian employer for a role that requires skills not readily available within the local workforce. The application process involves the employer submitting a letter of employment, the applicant’s qualifications, and the necessary documentation to Nigeria’s immigration authorities.

The Employment Visa is typically valid for up to 90 days, and after the visa is approved, the applicant can enter Nigeria to begin their employment. Once in Nigeria, the employee must apply for a Residence Permit, allowing them to stay for the duration of their employment contract. The visa can be extended, depending on the contract length and the employer's needs.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for foreign nationals who have secured employment with a Nigerian employer. It is perfect for professionals, skilled workers, and employees in industries such as oil and gas, construction, finance, and healthcare.

Expatriate Quota Work Permit

The Expatriate Quota Work Permit is a special permit granted to foreign nationals employed in key roles within Nigerian companies that require expertise not available locally. This permit is typically issued for highly skilled professionals in sectors such as energy, technology, and manufacturing. Employers must apply for an Expatriate Quota by demonstrating that they are unable to find qualified Nigerian candidates to fill the position.

The Expatriate Quota is issued on an annual basis and is specific to the employer and employee. It specifies the number of expatriates allowed to work in the company. This permit also allows foreign workers to bring their dependents to Nigeria under certain conditions. The employee is expected to apply for a Residence Permit upon arrival.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for multinational companies or large local companies that need to hire highly specialized foreign workers for senior managerial, technical, or advisory positions that require expertise not available in the local labor market.

Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa

The Subject to Regularization (STR) Visa is issued to foreign nationals who have received a job offer from a Nigerian employer but need to regularize their stay in Nigeria. The STR Visa is a temporary visa granted for a period of 90 days. During this period, the foreign national must apply for a Residence Permit from the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).

This visa is often granted to expatriates who are hired under the Expatriate Quota and other special work visas, allowing them to enter Nigeria legally before their work permit or residence status is fully processed. The STR visa holder is required to submit further documents to obtain a permanent work and residence permit.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for foreign workers who have received a job offer in Nigeria and need a temporary visa while their work permit and residence permit are being processed. It is best for employees transitioning from outside Nigeria to full-time roles in the country.

Temporary Work Permit

The Temporary Work Permit in Nigeria is designed for foreign nationals coming to the country for short-term assignments, contracts, or project work. This visa allows foreign employees to work in Nigeria for a limited period, typically up to 90 days. It is often used by consultants, contractors, and specialists who are needed for short-term projects or seasonal work in Nigeria.

The application process for this permit requires the employer to submit an invitation letter outlining the terms of the contract or assignment, along with the worker's qualifications and other relevant documentation. The Temporary Work Permit is ideal for individuals on short-term assignments, and once the visa expires, the foreign national must leave Nigeria.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for consultants, contractors, or specialists who need to come to Nigeria for short-term projects or assignments. It is perfect for workers who are not intending to stay long-term but need to provide their expertise for specific tasks.

Business Visa

The Business Visa for Nigeria is issued to foreign nationals who wish to travel to Nigeria for business purposes such as meetings, conferences, trade exhibitions, or negotiations. While this visa does not permit the holder to engage in full-time employment, it allows foreign nationals to attend business events, meet clients, and explore potential investment opportunities.

The Business Visa is typically valid for 30 to 90 days and is not intended for individuals seeking to establish long-term residence or employment in Nigeria. Holders of this visa can attend meetings, sign contracts, and engage in other business-related activities, but they are not allowed to be employed by a Nigerian company.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for business professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs who wish to visit Nigeria for a short-term business engagement or negotiation. It’s suitable for individuals needing to attend conferences, explore business opportunities, or build partnerships without seeking full-time employment in Nigeria.

Residence Permit

The Residence Permit in Nigeria is a long-term permit that allows foreign nationals to live in the country for a specific period, typically for the duration of their employment or business activities. To qualify for a Residence Permit, applicants must have a valid work visa (such as the Employment Visa or Expatriate Quota) and prove that they have secured employment or have an investment project in Nigeria.

Once the Residence Permit is granted, the foreign national is allowed to live and work in Nigeria for the duration of the permit, which is usually linked to the employment contract or business activity. The Residence Permit can be extended or renewed as long as the person continues to meet the necessary conditions.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for foreign nationals who have secured long-term employment or investment opportunities in Nigeria and wish to reside in the country for extended periods. It’s perfect for individuals who have a stable job or business in Nigeria and wish to live in the country legally.

Nigeria Dependent Visa

The Nigeria Dependent Visa is issued to the immediate family members of foreign nationals working or living in Nigeria. This visa allows spouses and children of foreign workers or residents to accompany them and live in Nigeria. The applicant for the dependent visa must submit proof of their relationship to the primary visa holder (e.g., marriage certificate or birth certificate).

This visa allows dependents to live in Nigeria, but it does not permit them to work in the country unless they obtain a separate work permit. If the primary visa holder’s work permit or residence permit is renewed, the dependent visa may also be extended.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for the spouses and children of foreign nationals who are working or living in Nigeria. It is suitable for families who wish to stay together while the primary visa holder works or studies in Nigeria.

Corporate Immigration Visa

The Corporate Immigration Visa is a special type of visa granted to foreign nationals coming to Nigeria for corporate activities. This could include setting up new operations, establishing a branch, or overseeing significant business operations in Nigeria. Corporate Visa applicants must provide documents that demonstrate their affiliation with the company and the nature of the corporate activity they will be undertaking in Nigeria.

The Corporate Immigration Visa is typically granted for periods of one to two years and can be extended depending on the needs of the corporation. The visa also includes provisions for dependents, allowing family members to join the employee in Nigeria.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for corporate executives, managers, or employees tasked with setting up or managing business operations in Nigeria. It is well-suited for foreign nationals looking to oversee or expand a company’s presence in Nigeria.

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Requirements For a Work Permit in Nigeria

To obtain a work permit in Nigeria, there are several key requirements that employers and employees must meet. These ensure that foreign workers are appropriately qualified for the positions they occupy and that their employment complies with Nigerian law. The general requirements for obtaining a work permit include:

• Employment offer from a Nigerian employer: The foreign worker must have a confirmed offer of employment from a Nigerian company.
• Expatriate Quota Approval: For certain roles, especially managerial or technical roles, employers must obtain approval for an expatriate quota, confirming that no Nigerian citizen is qualified for the position.
• Medical Examination Certificate: Depending on the role, workers may need to submit a medical certificate confirming they are fit to work in Nigeria.
• Valid Passport: A foreign worker must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of application.
• Educational and Professional Qualifications: Proof of the foreign worker’s qualifications and experience to perform the job is necessary.

Nigeria Work Permit Application Process

The process of applying for a work permit in Nigeria involves several steps. Employers should follow these steps carefully to ensure that all legal requirements are met and that the application is processed efficiently.

• Step 1: Submit an Application to the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS). Employers must apply on behalf of their foreign employees, providing necessary documentation, including the employment offer and qualifications.
• Step 2: Obtain Expatriate Quota Approval (if applicable). Certain positions may require the approval of the Nigerian government, confirming that the employer can hire foreign workers for specific roles.
• Step 3: Submit Application for Work Permit. After receiving quota approval, submit a formal application for the work permit through the NIS.
• Step 4: Receive Approval and Pay Fees. Once the application is processed, the work permit is issued, and applicable fees must be paid before the employee can commence work in Nigeria.

Process for Visa Sponsorship In Nigeria

Visa sponsorship for foreign workers in Nigeria involves the employer taking responsibility for ensuring the foreign worker meets the necessary requirements. The employer must provide proof that the foreign worker is necessary for the company and that the employee has the skills and qualifications that cannot be sourced locally. The Nigerian government places emphasis on ensuring that expatriate positions are granted when no qualified Nigerian is available.

Employers must also pay attention to the expatriate quota system, which limits the number of foreign nationals that can be employed in certain roles. If an employee is transferring within a multinational company, the sponsorship process may be simpler, but employers still need to submit the relevant documents to the NIS for approval.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Nigeria

The fees for obtaining a work permit or visa in Nigeria vary depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay. These fees must be paid upon submission of the application and are an essential part of the process.

The above fees reflect government fees for work permits and visas in Nigeria, and is not associated with Playroll's fees for visa support services. Please contact our team for detailed information on our visa support services.

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Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Nigeria

The processing time for work permits and visas in Nigeria can vary depending on the type of visa, the completeness of the application, and the specific requirements of the Nigerian Immigration Service. On average, it takes about 2-6 weeks to process a work permit or visa application. However, for more complex applications, particularly those requiring expatriate quota approvals, the process may take longer.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Nigeria

Work permits in Nigeria are typically valid for one to two years, depending on the type of visa. Upon expiration, the foreign worker must apply for a renewal to continue working in Nigeria. Employers are responsible for ensuring that their employees' work permits are renewed before they expire to avoid any legal complications. Renewals may require the same documentation as the initial application, including proof of employment and a valid passport.

Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Nigeria

While Nigeria does not currently offer a specific visa for digital nomads, foreign workers who wish to work remotely while staying in Nigeria may apply for a general work visa or tourist visa. However, digital nomads should ensure that their visa allows for extended stays, and they should avoid engaging in local employment without a proper work permit.

• Requirement 1: Valid Passport – A valid passport is required for entry into Nigeria.
• Requirement 2: Proof of Remote Work – Evidence that the applicant is employed or working remotely.
• Requirement 3: Sufficient Financial Resources – Applicants must demonstrate they can financially support themselves during their stay.

Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Nigeria

Employers hiring foreign workers in Nigeria often face challenges related to navigating the visa and work permit processes. Some common issues include delays in processing times, challenges in securing expatriate quota approvals, and ensuring compliance with local regulations. It's essential for employers to engage legal experts familiar with Nigerian immigration law to avoid costly mistakes and delays.

• Challenge 1: Securing Expatriate Quota Approval – Employers must justify the need for foreign workers, which can be a lengthy process.
• Challenge 2: Delays in Processing – Work permits and visas can sometimes take longer than expected, causing delays in employee onboarding.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

• Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
• Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
• Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.