Nigeria Introduces Online Temporary Work Permit Platform: What You Need to Know

Nigeria has introduced an innovative digital platform for applying for Temporary Work Permits (TWP). This new system allows foreign workers to submit applications and make payments online before arriving in the country. Employers must also secure Expatriate Comprehensive Insurance, which covers liability and repatriation costs.

Transforming the Application Process

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has launched a fully digital system for TWP applications. This ground-breaking change revolutionizes how foreign nationals and employers manage short-term work arrangements in Nigeria.

Streamlined Online Applications and Payments

With the new NIS portal, employers and applicants can now apply for work permits and process payments electronically before traveling to Nigeria. Once approved, the permit links directly to the applicant’s entry visa, removing the need for physical passport endorsements.

This transition significantly eases the application process. Previously, applicants had to be in Nigeria to complete their applications, and permits were manually stamped into passports. By digitizing submissions and payments, the NIS aims to enhance speed, tracking, and transparency for both companies and expatriates.

Implications for Foreign Workers

For the first time, foreign workers can apply for a Nigerian Temporary Work Permit from outside the country. This change streamlines the logistics of short-term assignments, offering employers increased flexibility in project timelines and onboarding processes.

The online system minimizes paperwork and reduces the need for in-person visits, aligning Nigeria’s immigration practices with global digital standards.

New Insurance Requirement for Employers

In conjunction with this digital update, the Ministry of Interior has implemented a mandatory Expatriate Comprehensive Insurance scheme. Employers hiring foreign nationals in the following categories must now secure this insurance:

• Expatriate Quota (EQ)
• CERPAC (Residence/Work Permits)
• Temporary Work Permit (TWP)

Insurance fees range from USD 500 for short-term stays to USD 1,000 for long-term assignments. This requirement ensures that employers are fully responsible for the welfare and potential repatriation costs of their foreign employees while they work in Nigeria.

A Leap Toward Modernized Immigration Practices

These updates represent a significant step by the Nigerian government toward modernizing immigration procedures. They aim to enhance transparency and strengthen accountability for companies hiring foreign talent. For businesses that frequently engage expatriates, adapting to these new online systems and insurance requirements will be essential for compliance and smooth operations.

Conclusion

In summary, applying for a Temporary Work Permit in Nigeria is now simpler, faster, and more secure. However, this convenience comes with added responsibilities for employers when hiring foreign professionals. Embracing these changes will not only streamline operations but also contribute to a more efficient immigration framework in Nigeria.