Immigration launches resident permit application portal

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has launched a new digital platform for the application and processing of the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC).

NIS’s spokesman, Assistant Comptroller of Immigration (ACI) Kenneth Akinlabi, in a statement on Wednesday, said the new platform, https://cerpac.immigration.gov.ng, is live and will enable applicants to complete and submit CERPAC applications electronically.

Applicants can now complete and submit CERPAC applications electronically, eliminating the need for physical submissions.

Applicants who have already paid for physical CERPAC forms but haven’t submitted them must do so by July 31, 2025, or risk forfeiting their application status and fees.

The NIS had introduced a new penalty for visa overstays, with foreigners incurring a daily fine of $15 from September 1, 2025, for exceeding their approved stay in Nigeria.

Companies and individuals responsible for processing permits on behalf of expatriates were similarly asked to ensure that all pending submissions are completed before the deadline to avoid disruptions.

The Service emphasised that any un-submitted CERPAC form after the deadline will be rendered void and invalid.

“All enquiries and correspondence on this matter should be directed to the Service through the office of the Public Relations Officer,” the statement added.

From August 1, 2025, all CERPAC applications must be submitted exclusively through the new online portal, with physical applications no longer accepted.

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