Nigeria entry requirements for Russia passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 21, 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
Russian passport holders need an eVisa to enter Nigeria. It's a single-entry permit valid for up to 90 days. Apply online before you travel — there's no visa-on-arrival option for Russian citizens as of 2026.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before travel | You need an eVisa to enter Nigeria. Apply through the Nigeria Immigration Service portal at least a few weeks before your trip — processing can take 7–14 business days. The eVisa is a single-entry permit, and you must print the approval letter to show at the border.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for 6 months beyond stay | Your Russian passport must have at least 6 months of validity remaining from your intended departure date from Nigeria. Airlines check this before boarding — if your passport expires sooner, you will be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration officers at Lagos and Abuja airports routinely ask for proof of onward travel. Have a printed or digital copy of your return ticket or a ticket to your next destination ready — they will not let you through without it. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Carry a printed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host in Nigeria. Immigration may ask where you are staying, and having a booking confirmation speeds up the process. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself | Have bank statements or a credit card showing you have enough money for your stay. While not always checked, officers at the border can ask for proof of funds — $500–$1,000 equivalent is a safe range for a short visit. | Recommended |
Yellow fever vaccine required
You must have a yellow fever vaccination certificate (yellow card) to enter Nigeria. Immigration checks this at the airport. Get the vaccine at least 10 days before travel.
eVisa is single-entry only
The eVisa allows one entry into Nigeria. If you leave and want to return, you'll need to apply for a new eVisa.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the Nigeria Immigration Service portal (portal.immigration.gov.ng). Create an account, fill in the application form, upload a passport photo and your passport data page, and pay the fee. Processing takes 3–5 business days. You'll receive the eVisa approval by email.
2
Print your eVisa and pack documents
Print the eVisa approval letter. Also print or save to your phone: your return flight booking, first night hotel confirmation, and travel insurance certificate. Keep your passport handy.
3
Arrive at a Nigerian airport
Most international flights arrive at Lagos (LOS) or Abuja (ABV). At immigration, present your passport, eVisa letter, and return ticket. The officer will stamp your passport and let you through. Expect a short queue — 15–30 minutes is typical.
Download Nigeria Entry Checklist
PDF · Russia Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 21, 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₦20,000 (~$25 USD)
Standard single-entry visa for tourism.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay90 days per entry
Validity6 months from issue
Cost₦40,000 (~$50 USD)
Allows multiple entries; suitable for frequent travelers.
Business visa
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months
Cost₦30,000 (~$37.50 USD)
Requires invitation letter from Nigerian company.
work visa
Nigeria Work Permit (CERPAC)
1 year, renewable
~$500 USD (processing fee)
For foreign nationals employed by a Nigerian company. Requires job offer and company sponsorship. Allows multiple entries.
student visa
Nigeria Student Visa
Duration of course, renewable annually
~$100 USD (visa fee)
For enrolled students at accredited Nigerian institutions. Requires admission letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Nigeria Business/Investor Visa
1 year, renewable
~$300 USD (processing fee)
For individuals investing in Nigerian businesses. Requires proof of investment and business registration.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa fee (single entry)Standard fee for Russian passport holders applying online. | ₦20,000 (~$25 USD) |
| Tourist visa (single entry)Same as eVisa; single entry, up to 90 days. | ₦20,000 (~$25 USD) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | ₦40,000 (~$50 USD) |
| Overstay fine per dayMaximum cap of ₦50,000 (~$62.50 USD). | ₦1,000 (~$1.25 USD) per day |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documents20%
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
Russian passport holders transiting through Nigeria do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration. However, if leaving the airport or changing terminals, a visa may be required.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of valid US, UK, or Schengen visas 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)
Health & vaccines for Nigeria
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired for all travelers arriving from endemic countries; proof of vaccination may be requested.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialYellow FeverEssentialMeningococcal MeningitisRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout Nigeria; prophylaxis strongly recommended.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks in urban areas; mosquito avoidance advised.
CholeraLow risk
Risk in areas with poor sanitation; ensure safe food and water.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is present year-round in all regions. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) recommended for all travelers.
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 123, Shehu Shagari Way, Abuja
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Main office for visa extensions and permits.
Lagos
Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos Command
1, Immigration Road, Ikeja, Lagos
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Busiest office; expect long queues.
Practical information for RU 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 = 1,371.62 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
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days. Apply at least a week before your flight to be safe. You'll get the approval by email.
No. Russian citizens must have an approved eVisa before boarding. There is no visa-on-arrival option for Russian passport holders.
The eVisa fee is around $160–$200 USD, depending on the current exchange rate. You pay online during the application.
You must renew your passport before applying. Immigration will deny entry if your passport has less than 6 months validity from your arrival date.
Yes. Nigeria requires proof of yellow fever vaccination (yellow card) for all travellers over 9 months old. You may be asked to show it on arrival.
The eVisa is single-entry and not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must leave and reapply for a new visa.
Bring your passport with the eVisa stamp, printed eVisa approval letter, return flight ticket, hotel booking, and yellow fever vaccination card. Keep copies on your phone as backup.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 21, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.