What is the Nigeria Tourism Visa?

The Tourism Visa (F5A) is a single-entry visa for travelers who wish to visit Nigeria for tourism purposes.1 Nigeria requires all UK citizens to apply for an e-Visa online before travel.2 The previous Visa on Arrival system has been discontinued.

As a British citizen, you must obtain this visa before boarding your flight to Nigeria. The visa allows you to explore Nigeria’s diverse landscapes, visit historical sites, experience vibrant cities like Lagos and Abuja, and enjoy the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Application Process

The entire application is completed online through the Nigeria Immigration Service portal.2 Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Create an Account

Visit portal.immigration.gov.ng and create an account with your email address.2 You will receive a confirmation email to verify your account.

2. Complete the Application Form

Fill out the online visa application form with your personal details, passport information, travel plans, and accommodation details.2 Select “Tourism Visa (F5A)” as your visa category.

3. Upload Required Documents

Upload digital copies of your supporting documents:1

• Passport biometric data page
• Passport-size photograph (35mm x 40mm, white background)
• Return flight booking
• Hotel reservation or host address
• Bank statement (last 180 days)
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate

4. Pay the Visa Fee

Pay the $160 visa fee online using a credit or debit card.2 Save your payment receipt and application reference number.

5. Receive Your e-Visa

If approved, you will receive an Electronic Travel Authorisation Letter (eTAL) via email.2 Print this document and carry it with you to Nigeria. Present it at immigration upon arrival.

Fees

The visa fee must be paid online during the application process.2 All fees are non-refundable once the application is submitted, regardless of the outcome. Fees are charged in US dollars.

What You Need to Prove

To obtain a Nigeria tourist visa, you must demonstrate:1

Financial Stability

• Sufficient funds to support your stay in Nigeria
• A bank statement showing consistent balances over 6 months
• Recommended minimum: £80 per day of planned stay

Clear Travel Purpose

• Defined tourism itinerary
• Confirmed accommodation arrangements
• Return or onward travel bookings

Health Requirements

• Valid yellow fever vaccination certificate
• Vaccination must be at least 10 days old at time of travel
• Complete online health declaration form

Processing Times

Most applications are processed automatically within 24-48 hours.2 Apply at least one week before your planned travel date. During peak travel seasons (December “Detty December” period), processing may take longer due to higher application volumes.

After Your Visa is Approved

Once you receive your e-Visa approval:2

Before Travel

• Print your Electronic Travel Authorisation Letter (eTAL)
• Complete the online Nigeria Entry and Exit forms at lecard.immigration.gov.ng before your flight1
• Complete the health declaration at healthapp.ncdc.gov.ng4
• Ensure your Yellow Card is readily accessible

At Nigerian Immigration

• Present your passport, printed eTAL, and Yellow Card
• Show your completed landing card (electronic or paper)
• You may be asked about your travel plans and accommodation
• Immigration officers will stamp your passport with your entry date

During Your Stay

• Keep your passport and eTAL with you at all times
• Respect the 30-day maximum stay limit
• Do not engage in any form of employment

Entry Points

E-Visa holders can enter Nigeria through these designated ports:2

International Airports

• Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos
• Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja
• Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano
• Port Harcourt International Airport

All airports are equipped with e-Gate facilities for faster processing of e-Visa holders.

If Your Visa is Refused

If your e-Visa application is rejected:2

Understand the Reason

Contact the Nigeria Immigration Service at info@immigration.gov.ng to request clarification on your refusal. Common reasons include incomplete documentation, insufficient funds, or incorrect information.

Reapply with Corrections

You can submit a new application that addresses the issues raised. Ensure all documents are complete and information is accurate before resubmitting. Note that visa fees must be paid again for each application.

Consider Embassy Application

If you continue to face difficulties with the e-Visa, you may apply through the Nigeria High Commission in London. This route allows you to submit physical documents and may provide additional support.3

Travel Safety Information

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) maintains travel advisories for Nigeria.1 Before traveling:

• Check the current travel advisory at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/nigeria
• Register your travel details with the FCDO
• Consider travel insurance that covers Nigeria
• Review NHS health recommendations for Nigeria

Exercise increased caution and avoid areas with active security concerns. The FCDO advises against all travel to certain parts of Nigeria. Most tourist destinations in Lagos, Abuja, and southern Nigeria are generally accessible for visitors who take standard precautions.

Health Precautions

Beyond the mandatory yellow fever vaccination, the NHS recommends:1

• Malaria prophylaxis (consult your GP or travel clinic)
• Routine vaccinations up to date
• Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines
• Consider Hepatitis B if you may have exposure

Drink only bottled or purified water and take precautions with food hygiene during your visit.

UK-Nigeria Connections

There are direct flights from London to Lagos and Abuja operated by British Airways and other carriers. Flight time is approximately 6-7 hours. Major UK airports with connections to Nigeria include:

• London Heathrow (direct flights)
• London Gatwick (connecting flights)
• Manchester (connecting flights)

Nigeria has a large diaspora community in the UK, and many British citizens travel to Nigeria to visit family, explore their heritage, or experience the vibrant culture. The shared Commonwealth history means English is widely spoken throughout Nigeria.