By Ifeoluwa Odunayo
The Federal Government has announced a sweeping overhaul of its immigration policy, imposing tougher regulations on expatriates in a bid to tighten border control and attract genuine investors.
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo revealed on Sunday that the new measures will take effect from May 1, with full enforcement set for August 1, 2025.
Among the critical changes is a daily fine of fifteen dollars for expatriates who overstay their visas.
Those who remain beyond six months will face a five-year entry ban, while overstays beyond one year will attract a ten-year ban.
In a move to modernise the system, the government will introduce automated landing and exit cards, ensure electronic visa processing within forty-eight hours, and enforce compulsory annual comprehensive insurance for expatriates.
The expatriate quota framework has been revised to reflect current realities, and an automated CERPAC will now be linked with Interpol, although officials assured that processing fees will remain unchanged.
Significantly, employers will bear responsibility for any infractions committed by their foreign staff, a step the government believes will enhance compliance.
Minister Tunji-Ojo stressed that these reforms aim to wipe out corruption, improve data accuracy, and create an environment conducive for legitimate business.
He added that a three-month grace period will be granted for expatriates to regularise their status before enforcement kicks in.
“These steps are about safeguarding our economy and ensuring that only those who genuinely wish to contribute to our development remain within our borders,” he stated.
The announcement marks one of the most comprehensive immigration reforms in recent years, reflecting the government’s renewed focus on security and economic stability.
