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Work visas

Nigerian Employment Visa (Expatriate)

A residence-track work visa for foreign nationals offered a job in Nigeria under an approved expatriate quota.

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Nigeria government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Employment Visa (Expatriate) – R2A
Route type
Work / residence (Subject To Regularisation)
Visa validity
90 days from issuance
Stay after regularisation
2-year renewable permit (CERPAC)
Employment
Sponsoring employer only

Who it is for

  • Foreign nationals with a confirmed employment contract from a Nigerian employer
  • Employers who hold a valid Expatriate Quota approved by the Ministry of Interior
  • Senior managers, professionals and other expatriate hires filling quota positions

Requirements

  • Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • Employment contract and acceptance letter
  • Formal employer application accepting Immigration Responsibility
  • Expatriate Quota approval
  • Educational certificates / credentials
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Board resolution (for senior managers)

What you can do

  • Work in Nigeria exclusively for the sponsoring employer
  • Reside in Nigeria once the stay is regularised into a CERPAC
  • Sponsor spouse and dependants separately under the R2B–R2E categories

How to apply

  • Employer obtains an Expatriate Quota from the Ministry of Interior
  • Employer issues quota approval and sponsorship letter
  • Submit the STR visa application at a Nigerian Embassy with required documents
  • Enter Nigeria and regularise status to obtain CERPAC

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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