If you’re a foreign national planning to relocate to Nigeria for business, investment, or long-term employment, one of the first things you need to understand is how to obtain a Nigerian residence permit legally. Nigeria provides multiple immigration pathways—but the process depends largely on why you’re coming into the country.
This article breaks down the immigration routes, visa types, and step-by-step process on how to get a residence permit in Nigeria as a foreigner—especially if you are an investor or business owner.
You may also watch our YouTube video on this series HERE
Ground Rules: What You Should Know Before Applying
Here are the basics every foreigner must understand:
1. There are different pathways into Nigeria
Foreigners can come into Nigeria through:
- Investment
- Employment
- Study
- Marriage to a Nigerian spouse
- Project-based assignments
Each pathway has its own visa requirements and documentation.
2. A Residence Permit is mandatory for long-term stay
If you plan to live and work in Nigeria for an extended period, you must apply for a residence permit—officially known as CERPAC.
3. Nigerian citizens do not need a residence permit
This guide is strictly for foreign nationals.
4. This article is specifically for investors
If you’re coming into Nigeria to set up a business or invest, this guide is written for you.
Types of Investment: FDI vs. FPI
Before applying for a residence permit, understand the type of investment route you’re using:
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
Entails buying or establishing a Nigerian company, factory, or physical assets. This type of foreign investment requires higher regulatory compliance and immigration approvals.
Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI)
Entails buying securities such as Nigerian stocks or bonds. It does NOT qualify you for residency, since you’re not actively running a Nigerian business.
HOW TO GET A RESIDENCE PERMIT IN NIGERIA AS A FOREIGNER
If you are registering a company and relocating to Nigeria, here are the steps:
Step 1: Register your Company in Nigeria
For investment-based entry, you must register a company—typically with a minimum ₦100 million share capital for FDI investors.
Step 2: Apply for the Appropriate Visa (PUR or STR)
A. PUR Visa (Permanent Until Review)
This is for:
- Company owners
- Directors
- Major shareholders
The application is submitted at the Nigerian Embassy in the country where you currently reside.
B. STR Visa (Subject to Regularization)
This is for:
- Employees
- Technicians
- Managers
- Other skilled workers
Also applied for at the Nigerian Embassy in the country you intend to visit from.
Step 3: Temporary Work Permit (Optional)
If an employee is coming temporarily for 3 months or less, they may apply for:
TWP – Temporary Work Permit
- Not valid for residency.
- Cannot be used to obtain CERPAC.
- Can be extended if needed.
Step 4: Apply for Ex (in Nigeria)Step 4: Apply for Expatriate Quota (in Nigeria)
Once in Nigeria, the company must apply for an Expatriate Quota, which determines:
- The job positions available for foreign employees
- The number of expatriates allowed
- The company’s operational structure
- Role descriptions and justification for foreign expertise
The quota is issued to the company, not the individual.
Step 5: Apply for CERPAC – Your Residence Permit
CERPAC (Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Alien Card) allows foreigners to:
- Live in Nigeria long-term
- Work legally
- Enter and exit the country freely
Key Facts About CERPAC
- Valid for 2 years
- Renewable
- Application can be made in any immigration office nationwide
- Must match the foreigner’s passport validity
This is Nigeria’s equivalent to the U.S. Green Card (for work-based residency).
SUMMARY
Here is a quick breakdown:
| Document | Purpose | Validity |
| Expatriate Quota | Approves foreign employment positions | Company-level |
| STR Visa | Entry visa for workers | 90 days |
| PUR Visa | Entry visa for directors/owners | Varies |
| TWP | Temporary 3-month work | 90 days |
| CERPAC | Residence permit | 2 years (renewable) |
Need Help Getting a Nigerian Residence Permit?
Getting a residence permit in Nigeria can be complicated—but it doesn’t have to be.
At Lex-Praxis, we help foreign investors and business owners with:
- Company incorporation for Foreign Direct Investment
- Regulatory compliance with NIPC, CAC, and Immigration
- Legal advisory for foreign investment and relocation
Let us handle the process while you focus on building your business in Nigeria.
📩 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone: +234 9160546551
🌐 Website: www.lexpraxisng.com
Start your move to Nigeria the right way—with expert legal support.
