Nigeria Tourism Visa
Tourism Visa (F5A) · For United States citizens
Planning a trip to Nigeria as an American citizen? You need a Tourism Visa (e-Visa) before you travel. The process is fully online: apply through the Nigeria Immigration Service portal, pay $160, and receive approval in 24-48 hours. With an approval rate above 95% for US applicants and straightforward documentation requirements, most Americans find the process quick and hassle-free.
Nigeria Tourist Visa for US Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For United States citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date
A recent passport-style photograph meeting Nigerian specifications
Proof of a booked return flight or onward travel from Nigeria
Proof of where you will stay during your visit to Nigeria
Evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever
Completed e-Visa application through the Nigeria Immigration Service portal
Recommended (Optional)
Additional documents required for children traveling to Nigeria
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 Since May 2025, Nigeria requires all visitors to apply for an e-Visa online before travel.1 The previous Visa on Arrival system has been discontinued.
As an American 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 e-Visa portal.2 Here is the step-by-step process:
1. Create an Account
Visit evisa.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.3 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
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Tourism Visa (F5A) | $160 |
| Bank Processing Fee | $20 |
| Total | $180 |
The visa fee must be paid online during the application process.3 All fees are non-refundable once the application is submitted, regardless of the outcome.
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: $100 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
Processing Times
| Application Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Standard e-Visa | 24-48 hours |
| During peak periods | Up to 5 business days |
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 before your flight
- Ensure your Yellow Card is readily accessible
At Nigerian Immigration
- Present your passport, printed eTAL, and Yellow Card
- 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 Nigerian Embassy in Washington DC or consulates in New York, Atlanta, or other locations. This route allows you to submit physical documents and may provide additional support.3
Travel Safety Information
The US Department of State maintains travel advisories for Nigeria.4 Before traveling:
- Check the current travel advisory level at travel.state.gov
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
- Register with the US Embassy in Abuja
- Review CDC health recommendations for Nigeria5
Exercise increased caution and avoid areas with active security concerns. Most tourist destinations in Lagos, Abuja, and southern Nigeria are generally safe for visitors who take standard precautions.
Health Precautions
Beyond the mandatory yellow fever vaccination, the CDC recommends:5
- Malaria prophylaxis (consult your doctor)
- 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.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Incomplete Documentation
Missing required documents such as bank statements, passport photo, or proof of accommodation is the leading cause of visa refusal.
How to avoid: Create a checklist of all required documents and verify each one before submitting. Ensure your passport photo meets the exact specifications (35mm x 40mm, white background).
Insufficient Financial Proof
Bank statements that do not demonstrate adequate funds to cover your stay, or statements that show inconsistent balances.
How to avoid: Provide a bank statement covering at least 180 days showing consistent funds. The recommended minimum is $100 per day of your planned stay. Avoid large unexplained deposits immediately before applying.
Incorrect or Inconsistent Information
Typos in passport numbers, mismatched names between documents, or inconsistent travel dates can trigger automatic rejection.
How to avoid: Triple-check all personal details match exactly across all documents. Passport name, number, and dates must be identical on your application and supporting documents.
Invalid Travel Documents
Return tickets that do not show confirmed bookings, accommodation evidence that does not cover the full stay, or expired passport validity.
How to avoid: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival. Provide confirmed flight bookings (not quotes) and accommodation for your entire trip.
Missing Yellow Fever Certificate
Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry to Nigeria. Applications without proof of vaccination or with expired certificates are refused.
How to avoid: Get vaccinated at an authorized center at least 10 days before travel. Keep your Yellow Card safe as you will need it at Nigerian immigration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US citizens need a visa to visit Nigeria?
Yes. All US citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Nigeria for tourism. The Tourism Visa (F5A) can be applied for online through Nigeria's e-Visa portal. There is no visa-free access or visa on arrival for American tourists.
How long does Nigeria visa approval take for Americans?
Most e-Visa applications are processed within 24-48 hours. During busy periods, processing may take up to 5 business days. Apply at least one week before your planned travel date to allow for any delays.
How much does the Nigeria tourist visa cost for US citizens?
The Nigeria Tourism Visa costs $160 for US passport holders. This fee is paid online during the application process and is non-refundable once the application is submitted.
How long can I stay in Nigeria on a tourist visa?
The Tourism Visa (F5A) allows a maximum stay of 30 days in Nigeria. The visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance, meaning you must enter Nigeria within 90 days of approval. The visa is single-entry and cannot be extended.
Can I work in Nigeria on a tourist visa?
No. The Tourism Visa permits only tourism activities. Employment, paid or unpaid, is strictly prohibited. If you need to work in Nigeria, you must apply for an appropriate work visa or permit.
Is yellow fever vaccination required for Nigeria?
Yes. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all travelers entering Nigeria. You must have a valid International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card) and present it upon arrival. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel.
Can I extend my Nigeria tourist visa?
No. The Tourism Visa (F5A) is not extendable. You must leave Nigeria before your 30-day stay expires. If you wish to stay longer, you must exit the country and apply for a new visa.
What happens if my Nigeria visa is refused?
If your e-Visa is rejected, you can submit a new application addressing the issues raised. Common reasons for refusal include incomplete documentation or insufficient funds. Visa fees are non-refundable. You can contact the Nigeria Immigration Service at info@immigration.gov.ng for clarification.
Do I need an invitation letter for Nigeria tourist visa?
An invitation letter is not required for the Tourism Visa (F5A). However, if you are staying with friends or family rather than a hotel, you should provide their Nigerian address and contact details as your accommodation evidence.
Can I apply for Nigeria visa at the airport on arrival?
No. As of May 2025, Nigeria has discontinued the Visa on Arrival system for most travelers. US citizens must obtain an e-Visa before traveling. Apply through the official portal at evisa.immigration.gov.ng.