In a major advancement for Nigeria immigration services, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has launched a new online platform dedicated to handling applications, payments, and processing for the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC). This digital initiative, announced in mid-July 2025, aims to streamline procedures for foreign nationals living and working in Nigeria, making it more convenient and efficient.
The portal, accessible at https://cerpac.immigration.gov.ng, went live following an official announcement on July 16, 2025. It enables expatriates, employing companies, and authorized representatives to manage the entire CERPAC application process remotely. Users can submit forms, upload documents, make secure payments, and track progress without needing to visit NIS offices in person for most steps. This shift eliminates much of the previous paperwork and queues that often delayed approvals
According to NIS spokesperson ACI Kenneth Kure Akinlabi (also referred to in reports as Akinsola Akinlabi or similar variations), this development represents a key achievement in the federal government's efforts to modernize public services. The goal is to cut down on red tape, boost accountability, and speed up delivery times for essential immigration documents. "This is a game-changer for how we handle expatriate permits," the statement emphasized, highlighting benefits like reduced corruption risks through transparent online transactions.
What is CERPAC? The Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card is a vital document for non-Nigerians planning to stay in the country longer than 90 days for work, business, study, or family reasons. It functions as both a residence permit and an ID card, typically valid for one to two years and renewable. Without a valid CERPAC, expatriates risk fines, deportation, or legal issues. Previously, the process involved physical forms, multiple office visits for biometrics, and manual payments, which could take weeks or months.
With the new e-CERPAC system, applicants start by registering on the portal, entering passport details, uploading supporting documents (such as employment letters, visa copies, and proof of address), and completing payments online—often in USD for expatriates. Biometrics capture (fingerprints and photos) may still require a one-time visit to an NIS facility, but the bulk of the work is now digital. This aligns Nigeria with global standards seen in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia, where online immigration portals have long been standard.
The transition includes an important deadline: From August 1, 2025, physical or manual CERPAC forms will no longer be accepted. All new applications must go through the online portal. Those who have already paid for but not submitted physical forms are urged to finalize them by July 31, 2025, to avoid losing fees or application status. Companies sponsoring expatriates (assuming "Immigration Responsibility") should prioritize completing any pending cases before the cutoff.
This move is part of broader reforms under the Ministry of Interior to enhance Nigeria visa and residence permit processes. Recent changes include penalties for visa overstays (starting September 2025) and an amnesty period for regularization. The digital platform is expected to reduce errors, prevent fraud, and make Nigeria more attractive for foreign investment and talent.
For expatriates in sectors like oil and gas, tech, education, and manufacturing—common in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt—this update means faster compliance. Businesses can now manage multiple employee permits centrally, saving time and costs. Human resource managers praise the change for simplifying quota approvals and renewals.
Challenges during rollout may include internet access in remote areas or familiarity with digital tools, but NIS has promised support hotlines and guides on their website. Training sessions for corporate users are also planned.
Overall, this digital CERPAC portal signals Nigeria's push toward e-governance in immigration. It promises quicker approvals, better record-keeping, and a more welcoming environment for international workers contributing to the economy.
Expatriates and sponsors are encouraged to visit the official NIS site or the new portal for step-by-step guides. As Nigeria continues to grow as a hub for foreign professionals, innovations like this make legal residency smoother and more reliable.
This development has been welcomed by business communities, with many seeing it as a positive step in easing doing business in Nigeria. Future updates may include full biometric integration or mobile app support.
In summary, the launch of the fully digital CERPAC application platform marks a new era for expatriate residence permits in Nigeria, prioritizing convenience, speed, and transparency for all involved.
