FG launches post-amnesty program for foreigners overstaying visas

The federal government has introduced a new Post-Amnesty Voluntary Return and Documentation Program (PAVRDP) for foreign citizens who have overstayed their visa or violated immigration laws without regularizing their status.

The initiative, announced by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) on Friday, follows the expiration of the government’s expired visa amnesty program on September 30, 2025.

According to a statement signed by the Service’s Public Relations Officer, ACI Akinsola Akinlabi, the new program will begin on Monday, October 13, 2025 and is designed to provide a final opportunity for interested foreigners to normalize their stay in Nigeria through proper documentation.

“The post-amnesty program is aimed at all foreign nationals who failed to take advantage of the recently concluded expired visa initiative. They are expected to report to the nearest immigration command for registration and documentation,” the statement read.

Akinlabi revealed that each case will be examined on its individual merits in line with the Immigration Act 2015 and other existing legislation.

It warned that any foreigner who ignores the directive risks arrest, detention, deportation and possible long-term entry bans.

The NIS also warned Nigerian citizens, businesses and organizations against aiding or harboring undocumented immigrants, stressing that such actions constitute criminal offenses under Nigerian law.

“The Service will not hesitate to enforce the law against any individual or entity found to be providing shelter, employment, or assistance to illegal migrants,” Akinlabi added.

Reaffirming its commitment to orderly migration management, the NIS said the program is part of efforts to strengthen national security, promote compliance with immigration laws and ensure the proper regulation of foreign residents in the country.

The Service appealed for cooperation from all stakeholders, stressing that the documentation exercise would help the government maintain accurate records of foreign nationals living in Nigeria and curb security threats related to irregular migration.

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