Did you know Nigeria is home to the Nok culture, one of the oldest known civilizations in Africa, dating back to 1500 BC? Famous for its terracotta sculptures, the Nok civilization is less known globally but represents a significant milestone in African history. Beyond its cultural wealth, Nigeria today is one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, attracting both tourists and business visitors. If you are a Pakistani national planning a trip to Nigeria, you must secure a visa before traveling.
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Where to Apply
All Nigerians visas for Pakistanis are processed through the:
Nigeria High Commission
Diplomatic Enclave, Isphani Rd, Islamabad, Pakistan
It is essential to submit your application in person since biometric verification (fingerprints and photo) and interview is mandatory . No travel agents or third-party facilitators can bypass this step.
Step-by-Step Visa Application Process
Complete the Visa Form Online
Go to the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) portal: portal.immigration.gov.ng, register with your email and fill in the online form carefully, and then print a copy of the completed form. Ensure that all spellings match your passport exactly.
Gather Required Documents
The following documents are generally required:
- A valid Pakistani passport with at least 6 months remaining validity
- Completed and printed visa application form
- Visa payment slip and acknowledgment slip.
- Two recent passport-size photographs (white background)
- Flight itinerary or reservation
- Hotel booking / accommodation proof in Nigeria
- Invitation letter from host in Nigeria (In case of tourist visa, a hotel booking would suffice).
- Police character certificate (mandatory).
- Copy of host’s Nigerian ID card or residence permit (if staying with a friend or host).
- Latest bank statement showing sufficient funds
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory for all travelers)
- For business visas, you’ll need a covering letter from your Pakistani company and a recommendation letter from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Documents Submission
After the online application is completed, you must submit the required documents in person at the High Commission of Nigeria in Islamabad.
The High Commission has specific days for visa application submissions (e.g., Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 AM to 11 AM).
Interview
An in-person interview is mandatory for all visa applicants, even if you have traveled to Nigeria before.
You should not show up for the interview on your own; the High Commission will contact you to schedule a specific date.
Processing Time
Normally, the visa is processed within 5 to 10 working days, but delays may occur during peak travel seasons. It is advisable to apply at least 3 to 4 weeks before travel.
Biometric Verification
On the day of submission, you will be required to provide fingerprints and a live photo at the embassy.
Visa Fees
All applicants must pay two distinct charges: the visa fee and the biometrics fee. Both fees are processed exclusively through the official online payment system; cash payments are not permitted under any circumstances. Applicants should be prepared to show evidence of payment at multiple stages.
| Visa Type | Processing Method | Visa Fee | Biometrics Fee | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (F5A) | Embassy Sticker Visa (Islamabad) | $68 | $170 | $238 |
Always keep both a printed and digital copy of your online payment slip, as embassy staff may request it during submission or collection.
Important Requirements & Tips
Invitation Letters: For family or business visits, invitation letters must be notarized and include full contact details of the host.
Yellow Fever Certificate: No entry is allowed into Nigeria without a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Ensure you get vaccinated before your trip.
Single vs. Multiple Entry: By default, most Pakistanis are granted a single-entry visa. A multiple-entry visa requires strong justification (usually frequent business travel).
Proof of Funds: Embassy officers may ask for proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Nigeria. A 3–6 months updated bank statement is recommended.
Overstaying Penalties: Nigeria has strict penalties for overstaying visas. This may include fines, detention, or future entry bans. Plan your stay according to the visa validity.
Nigerian High Commission in Islamabad Contact Details
Address: Plot No. 132-135, Diplomatic Enclave, Isphani Road, G-5/4, Islamabad, Pakistan
Phone: +92-51-283-2194, +92-51-283-2196
Email: nigeriahc_islamabad@yahoo.com or nigeria.islamabad@foreignaffairs.gov.ng
FAQs
Address: Diplomatic Enclave, Isphani Road, Islamabad
Phone: (+92) 51 2832194-96
Email: nigeriahc_islamabad@yahoo.com. Always call or email to confirm appointment procedures and document requirements before you visit.
