Nigeria Visa Policy 2026: New Work Permit & Quota Rules for Business Success

Take Command of the 2026 Regulatory Shift

The landscape for foreign investment and talent in Nigeria has fundamentally changed this January. The Federal Government now enforces the Expatriate Administration System (EAS), replacing old manual processes with a strictly digital regime. Consequently, companies must align with the Nigeria Visa Policy 2026 immediately to prevent operational halts. This guide provides the critical updates your board requires for a successful year.

The New N100 Million Capital Requirement

The revised capital requirement for Business Permits represents the most significant hurdle for many firms today.

The 900% Increase in Paid-Up Capital

Previously, foreign-owned entities operated under much lower thresholds. However, the Ministry of Interior now mandates a minimum of N100 Million issued/paid-up capital.

• For New Companies: You must meet this prerequisite to obtain a Business Permit.

• For Existing Companies: Regularize your capitalization before your next Quota renewal. Auditors are currently flagging firms that fail to meet this new financial standard.

H2: Essential Work Permit Categories for 2026

Under the Nigeria Visa Policy 2026, “one-size-fits-all” applications no longer exist. You must select the precise code that matches your talent’s specific role.

1. The R2A Employment Visa (Standard Expatriate)

The R2A Visa remains the primary route for long-term staff. However, the system now strictly ties this visa to your Quota utilization returns. If you fail to file your monthly returns online at the e-Citibiz portal, the system will automatically block your R2A renewals.

2. The Temporary Work Permit (R10 & R11)

For short-term technical experts, the government has split the TWP into two distinct paths:

• R10 (Standard TWP): Use this for single-entry tasks lasting up to 90 days.

• R11 (6-Month TWP): This multiple-entry facility supports longer projects. Note that you cannot renew the R11 after the initial six-month period.

H2: The Digital Revolution: e-CERPAC and e-Visa

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has finalized its transition to a “Single Window” digital system.

Mandatory e-CERPAC Regularization

The Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (e-CERPAC) now moves through a fully digital pipeline.

• Efficiency: Compliant companies now receive approvals within 48 hours.

• Tracking: Every card features a QR code linked to the Expatriate Administration System (EAS). This allows enforcement officers to verify your talent’s legal status instantly during field inspections.

H2: Your Q1 2026 Compliance Checklist

Perform these three checks immediately to protect your “Immigration Responsibility” and your professional standing:

1. Verify Understudy Plans: Pair every expatriate slot with a Nigerian understudy. Auditors now demand National Identification Numbers (NIN) for both the expert and the local successor.

2. Audit Your Monthly Returns: Stop all manual submissions immediately. Ensure your team uses the automated online filing system for every report.

3. Check Visa Validity: The daily fine for overstaying has reached $15 per day. Furthermore, the NIS now issues long-term bans for violations exceeding six months.

Partnering for 2026 Certainty

The Nigeria Visa Policy 2026 rewards transparent, compliant businesses while penalizing those who ignore these digital shifts. At Viopat Consultants, we leverage decades of insider experience to move your talent across borders without friction.

Schedule Your 2026 Compliance Audit with Viopat