NIGERIA will fully digitise its expatriate residence permit system from May 1, marking a major policy shift aimed at accelerating approvals, closing loopholes, and reducing corruption, Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has announced.
The reform centres on the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC)—the document required by all foreigners working or living in the country. Until now, the process has been paper-heavy, slow, and frequently exploited by corrupt middlemen, critics told Reuters.
Permit processing moves fully online
‘The era of going to the bank, buying forms, and physically submitting documents for CERPAC is over,’ said Tunji-Ojo, speaking to business leaders in Lagos and later reaffirming the move via a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Applications will now be filed and processed online, with QR-coded digital permits replacing physical cards. The system will be integrated with law enforcement databases to enable real-time background checks on criminal and immigration history.
Tunji-Ojo clarified that no fee increases are involved, stressing that the move is aimed at cutting bureaucracy, improving service delivery, and reducing human contact points vulnerable to bribery.
Quota system abuse under scrutiny
Another major target of the reform is the expatriate quota system, which allows companies to bring in foreign staff for roles where local skills are lacking. The minister cited several cases where quotas were granted for low-skill jobs such as drivers and waiters.
‘This is unacceptable,’ he said. ‘We will ensure quotas are reserved for roles that genuinely require foreign expertise.’
A mandatory understudy scheme will now be enforced, requiring companies to train Nigerian employees alongside expatriate hires and submit regular progress reports on the skills transfer.
New insurance scheme for foreign workers
The new system also introduces a compulsory insurance package, funded by employers, to cover expatriates’ repatriation costs, personal liabilities, and other risks during their stay in Nigeria.
Tunji-Ojo warned that those with criminal backgrounds would be blocked from entering or remaining in Nigeria, as the upgraded system will integrate with Interpol and other global security agencies.
‘Nigeria will not be a haven for fugitives,’ he said.
Part of wider immigration reforms
This reform builds on February’s automation of Nigeria’s electronic visa system, which similarly aimed to streamline access for legitimate visitors while tightening border control.
Both measures take effect from May 1, signalling the government’s broader intent to modernise immigration, reduce fraud, and attract responsible investment.
