By David Akinmola
In a major step toward digitising immigration processes and improving service efficiency, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has launched a dedicated online portal for the processing of resident permit applications.
The move signals the official end of manual or paper-based applications, which will be fully phased out by August 1, 2025.
The new digital platform, announced by the NIS headquarters in Abuja on Monday, is designed to streamline the process for foreign nationals residing in Nigeria, enabling them to submit applications, upload supporting documents, and receive approvals electronically—all from the comfort of their homes or offices.
According to the NIS, the portal is part of a broader reform agenda aimed at enhancing national security, eliminating inefficiencies, and improving transparency in line with global best practices.“This initiative reflects our commitment to modernising immigration services and making Nigeria more welcoming to legitimate residents and investors,” said Comptroller-General Kemi Nandap, while unveiling the portal. “By August 1, all resident permit applications will be processed exclusively online. There will be no more acceptance of physical or paper forms at any immigration office nationwide.”
The digital portal is also expected to help reduce the risk of document loss, data entry errors, and processing delays that have long plagued the manual system. It will feature real-time status tracking, biometric verification, and secure payment gateways for ease of use and accountability.
Stakeholders in the business and diplomatic communities have welcomed the development, saying it aligns with Nigeria’s drive to improve its ease of doing business, especially for foreign professionals, investors, and expatriates contributing to key sectors of the economy.
The NIS advised all existing and prospective resident permit holders to familiarize themselves with the new platform and begin migrating to the digital system ahead of the August 1 deadline. Support services and helplines have been made available to assist users during the transition period.
This shift follows earlier digitisation efforts such as the e-passport rollout and electronic visa systems, which have significantly improved service delivery across Nigerian immigration offices both at home and abroad.
With this latest move, the NIS says it is strengthening its mission to deliver a secure, seamless, and people-friendly immigration system, in tune with Nigeria’s national digital economy strategy.
