The Complete Nigeria Work Visa Process for Skilled Professionals
Securing aThe Complete Nigeria Work Visa Process for Skilled l can be a game-changer for your career whether you’re an engineer IT expert healthcare professional, or consultant. But the process involves multiple stages, legal requirements, and coordination between you and your Nigerian employer This guide gives you clarity so you can prepare documents confidently, avoid common pitfalls and improve your chances of approval.
What Is The Complete Nigeria Work Visa Process for Skilled Professionals
The Nigeria work visa most often the Employment Visa and Temporary Work Permit allows foreign professionals to enter and work legally in Nigeria under a sponsoring employer.
Types of work visas you may encounter.
- Employment/Expatriate Visa . For long term employment under an approved expatriate quota.
- Temporary Work Permit .For short term project based work.
- Temporary Work Permit . For specialized assignments like installations or training.
The Complete Nigeria Work Visa Process for Skilled Professionals Visa Process
Secure a Job Offer & Employer Sponsor
Before you can start the visa process, you must have an employment contract from a Nigerian employer willing to sponsor you. This employer initiates the next key step the expatriate quota application.
Expatriate Quota Submission
Employer actions include.
- Submit company registration, tax records, and justification for hiring a foreign worker.
- Provide training plans showing how local staff will benefit.
Apply for The Complete Nigeria Work Visa Process for Skilled Professionals Visa
With the quota approved, you apply for the Subject to Regularization Visa at the Nigerian embassy or consulate in your home country.
Common requirements:
- Valid passport
- Four recent passport photos.
- Expatriate quota approval copies.
- Employment offer & acceptance letters.
- Passport payment receipts.
Regularize Your Stay in The Complete Nigeria Work Visa Process for Skilled Professionals
After entry you complete the regularization converting your entry visa into a Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card This gives you legal work and residence rights, often valid up to two years and renewable.
Document Checklist What You’ll Need
Prepare these carefully to avoid delays.
Valid passport
Employment contract & offer letter
Expatriate quota approval
CV and professional certificates
Company authorization accepting immigration responsibility
Passport photos
Visa application forms
Payment receipts
Estimated Timeline
The whole process from job offer to CERPAC can take 6 to 8 weeks depending on embassy processing times and the expatriate quota approval cycle.
FAQ: The Complete Nigeria Work Visa Process for Skilled Professionals
Can I work in Nigeria with just a visitor visa?
No you must have the correct work visa or permit before engaging in paid employment.
Can my family join me?
Yes can apply for accompanying visas once the primary work permit is in place.
Do I need the health check?
Depending on the embassy vaccination certificates might be required.