Nigeria entry requirements for Sri Lanka passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 25, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Sri Lankan passport holders need an eVisa to enter Nigeria in 2026. You apply online before travel and receive approval by email. No visa on arrival is available for Sri Lankan citizens.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before travel | Apply for a Nigerian eVisa at the Nigeria Immigration Service portal. The application requires a digital photo, passport scan, and proof of travel. Processing takes 3–5 business days — apply at least a week before departure.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for the duration of stay | Your Sri Lankan passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Nigeria. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you'll be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure from Nigeria | Immigration officers at Lagos and Abuja airports routinely ask for a return or onward ticket. Have a printed copy or digital booking confirmation ready. Without it, you risk being refused entry. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Carry a hotel reservation confirmation or a letter of invitation from your host in Nigeria. Immigration may ask where you're staying — having a printed address and phone number speeds things up. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself | Have bank statements or a credit card showing access to at least $1,000 USD for a short stay. Officers rarely ask, but if they do, you need to demonstrate you're not working illegally. | Recommended |
No visa on arrival
Sri Lankan passport holders cannot get a visa on arrival in Nigeria. You must have an approved eVisa before you travel. Airlines will check this before you board.
Yellow fever certificate required
You must show proof of yellow fever vaccination (the yellow card) at immigration. Without it, you may be denied entry or forced to get vaccinated on the spot at your own expense.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for eVisa online
Go to portal.immigration.gov.ng, create an account, fill in the application form, upload your passport scan and a passport-style photo, and pay the fee (around $160–$200 depending on processing speed). Submit at least 5 business days before travel.
2
Receive eVisa approval
Check your email (including spam folder) for the eVisa approval PDF. It usually arrives within 3–5 business days. Print a copy and save it on your phone.
3
Arrive at a Nigerian airport
Fly into Lagos (LOS), Abuja (ABV), or Port Harcourt (PHC). At immigration, present your passport, printed eVisa, return ticket, and accommodation booking. The officer will stamp your passport — you're in.
4
Exit Nigeria
Before your eVisa expires, fly out. At departure immigration, show your passport and boarding pass. No exit visa or extra fee needed.
Download Nigeria Entry Checklist
PDF · Sri Lanka Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 25, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist Visa (single entry)
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$160 USD (approx. 29,000 LKR)
Standard tourist visa for single entry.
Tourist Visa (multiple entry)
Max stay90 days per entry
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$200 USD (approx. 36,000 LKR)
Allows multiple entries within validity.
Business Visa
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$200 USD (approx. 36,000 LKR)
Requires invitation letter from Nigerian company.
work visa
Work Permit (CERPAC)
1 year, renewable
$2,000 USD (approx. 360,000 LKR) plus processing fees
For foreign nationals employed by a Nigerian company. Requires a job offer and company sponsorship. Allows multiple entries.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of course, renewable annually
$150 USD (approx. 27,000 LKR) plus tuition fees
For those enrolled in a recognized Nigerian educational institution. Requires admission letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Business Visa (Investor)
1 year, renewable
$2,500 USD (approx. 450,000 LKR) plus registration fees
For individuals investing a minimum of $100,000 USD in a Nigerian business. Requires proof of investment and business registration.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for Sri Lanka passport holders. | $160 USD (approx. 29,000 LKR) |
| Tourist visa (single entry)Same as eVisa for single entry. | $160 USD (approx. 29,000 LKR) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity. | $200 USD (approx. 36,000 LKR) |
| Overstay fine per dayNo official cap; avoid overstay. | $20 USD per day (approx. 3,600 LKR) |
| Stay extension (if applicable)Apply at immigration office before expiry. | Varies; typically $50–$100 USD |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Nigeria
No transit visa needed
Sri Lanka passport holders transiting through Nigeria do not require a transit visa if they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket within 24 hours.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa may transit without visa for up to 48 hours.
Transit hubsMurtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS), Lagos · Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV), Abuja · Port Harcourt International Airport (PHC), Port Harcourt
Health & vaccines for Nigeria
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired for all travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, or if travelling from an endemic area.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialYellow FeverEssentialMeningococcal MeningitisRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout Nigeria, especially in rural areas. Prophylaxis recommended.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occurs in urban and semi-urban areas, especially during rainy season.
CholeraModerate risk
Risk in areas with poor sanitation; ensure safe food and water practices.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is present throughout Nigeria. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) is strongly recommended for all travellers.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Abuja
Nigeria Immigration Service Headquarters
Plot 1161, Shehu Shagari Way, Abuja
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
For visa extensions and residency permits.
Lagos
Lagos Zonal Office, Nigeria Immigration Service
23, Marina Street, Lagos Island
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Main office for visa-related issues in Lagos.
Practical information for LK travellers
Country basics
CapitalAbuja
LanguageEnglish
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US driver's license for up to 3 months.
Money
CurrencyNigerian naira (NGN)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 1,372.7 NGN
Time zone
Local timeUTC+1
vs New York+6h
vs Los Angeles+9h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
D,GType D (3-pin round) and Type G (3-pin rectangular) plugs
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
Typically 3–5 business days. Apply at least a week before your flight to be safe. Processing can be slower during Nigerian holidays.
Around $160–$200 USD, depending on the processing speed you choose. Payment is online by credit or debit card.
No. The eVisa is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must leave and reapply from outside Nigeria.
You won't be allowed to board your flight. Airlines check for valid visas before issuing a boarding pass. No visa on arrival is available for Sri Lankan passport holders.
Yes — proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry. Carry your International Certificate of Vaccination (the yellow card). You may be asked to show it at immigration.
No. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry. If it's close to expiring, renew it before applying for the eVisa.
Rejections are rare but can happen if your documents are incomplete or your passport is damaged. You'll receive an email explaining the reason. You can reapply after fixing the issue — but you'll need to pay the fee again.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 25, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.