Digital Borders: Evaluating Nigeria’s Transition to a Fully Automated Immigration System -By O. M. Atoyebi, SAN FCIArb. (U.K)

Oyetola Muyiwa Atoyebi SAN, FCIArb. (U.K)

CONTRIBUTOR: IFEDIORA OBIORA CHISOM

Introduction

In an era where technology is reshaping global mobility, Nigeria occupies a pivotal spot in redefining its immigration landscape. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has embarked on a comprehensive digital transformation aimed at enhancing border security, streamlining immigration processes, and aligning with international best practices.

In a significant stride toward modernizing its immigration framework, Nigeria has officially launched a fully automated immigration system, which became effective on May 1, 2025.[1] This development introduces two important components: the e-Visa Application System and the Automated Landing and Exit Card.[2] These initiatives mark a departure from traditional, manual processes and aim to enhance efficiency, security, and compliance within Nigeria’s borders.

This work explores this recent shift and examines the legal, operational, and human rights implications of digitizing border control, such as data protection concerns, system accessibility. It also considers whether this digital transformation genuinely enhances security and efficiency or simply creates new legal and technological challenges.

Nigeria’s Pre-Digital Immigration Framework

Before the implementation of Nigeria’s e-visa system and automated landing and exit cards on May 1, 2025, the country relied on manual, paper-based immigration procedures.[3] Prior to the e-visa system, travelers had to obtain visas through Nigerian embassies or consulates.[4] This involved completing physical application forms, submitting required documents, and attending in-person interviews. The duration for processing the visa varies at times, as it may take several weeks to process.

Additionally, Nigeria offered a Visa on Arrival (VoA) program for eligible travellers.[5] Applicants had to apply online before travelling, receive an approval letter, and then obtain the visa upon arrival at Nigerian airports. This process required presenting printed documents and making payments at the port of entry.[6]

The VoA is essentially a short-term visitor’s visa that permits the holder to enter Nigeria for the purpose of conducting specific business activities.[7] It is a temporary travel document issued at the port of entry, typically valid for a period of 30 days.[8] Recipients are expected to leave the country before the visa expires, unless an extension is formally requested and approved. As a visitor’s visa, it does not confer the right to undertake paid employment or engage in any fee-based services while in Nigeria.[9]

The category of persons who can apply for a VoA include

High Net worth Investors with business interest in Nigeria;[10]

A frequent traveller, an investor, a business person or anyone who intends to visit Nigeria but unable to obtain a visa from a Nigerian Consulate, High Commission, or Embassy in their country of residence, probably due to the absence of a Nigerian mission or the urgency of travel, [11]is

Citizens of African countries, except ECOWAS Nationals who do not necessarily need a visa to visit Nigeria for a period not exceeding 90 days,[12] and citizens of other countries who have signed a visa Abolition Agreement with Nigeria.[13]

The shift to digital systems aimed to streamline immigration processes, enhance security, and align with global best practices. The new e-visa platform allows travelers to apply online and receive electronic visas (thus attracting international investors),[14] while the automated landing and exit cards replace the manual forms with digital submissions, improving efficiency and data accuracy.[15]

Differences between Nigeria’s E-Visa and Landing Card

The e-Visa functions as an official authorization granted by the Nigerian government that allows eligible foreign nationals to enter the country for short-term purposes such as business or tourism. On the other hand, the Landing and Exit Card is a travel document used strictly for immigration data collection; it does not serve as a visa or confer permission to enter Nigeria.[16]

The e-Visa must be applied for before travelling to Nigeria. Applicants are advised to submit their application several days in advance to allow for processing and confirmation, while the Landing and Exit Card must be completed and submitted within 96 hours (4 days) prior to arrival in Nigeria, ensuring immigration authorities have advance notice of travel.[17]

While the e-Visa is generally valid for 30 days and allows for a single entry into Nigeria, unless a different duration or multiple-entry status is granted based on visa type, the Landing and Exit Card is valid for a single use per entry, meaning travellers must complete a new form for each entry into Nigeria.[18]

While the e-Visa is required for eligible foreign nationals who are not exempt from visa requirements and who intend to visit Nigeria for short-term and non-employment purposes, the Landing and Exit Card is required for all non-Nigerian travellers, regardless of visa status or nationality, as part of Nigeria’s immigration data management system.[19]

Processing the e-Visa usually takes 24 to 48 hours, depending on the visa category and completeness of the application and approval is communicated electronically. On the other hand, submission of the Landing and Exit Card is almost instantaneous, with confirmation typically received immediately after online submission.[20]

Human Rights Implications of Digitizing Border Control

As digital technologies continue to transform the way borders are managed, it is important to remember that migration itself is nothing new, and that those who undertake these journeys often face deeply uncertain and vulnerable circumstances. Thus, it is imperative to highlight some implications of digitizing the border control.

Right to Privacy: Digital border systems often require the collection and storage of biometric data (such as fingerprints and facial scans), travel history, and personal identifiers. Hence, without strong data protection safeguards, there tend to be a risk of misuse, surveillance, or unauthorized access to sensitive information.[21]

Risk of Discrimination and Profiling: Algorithms and automated decision-making tools which are used in digital border systems may reflect biases embedded in their design or datasets, thereby potentially leading to discriminatory practices against certain nationalities, ethnic groups, or asylum seekers.[22]

Exclusion and Digital Inequality: There is a possibility that travellers from countries with limited access to internet infrastructure or low digital literacy may face difficulty navigating online visa applications and landing card systems, potentially excluding vulnerable populations from legitimate travel.

Access to Asylum and Due Process: Automated systems may speed up decision-making, but can also reduce the opportunity for individuals to explain their circumstances or seek asylum. Overreliance on digital tools risks undermining fair procedures and the right to be heard.[23] Notably, the use of new technologies is increasing in the migration and asylum fields across the world, particularly in the arenas of policing and security, personal identification, and communication and movement of information.[24] Many of these systems pose threats to the rights of people seeking to move across borders, in ways that exacerbate underlying racial, economic, and social inequalities[25]

Efficiency Gains Versus Legal Complexities in Nigeria’s E-Visa System

Having understood what the e-Visa and the Automated Landing and Exit Card entail, and the reason behind the recent development of the two concepts, it is pertinent to weigh their pros against their cons, in order to determine the challenges and proffer recommendations to any foreseeable issue that may arise.

Efficiency Gains

Streamlined Application Process: The e-Visa system allows travelers to apply online, thereby eliminating the need for in-person visits to embassies. This digital approach has reduced processing times, with approvals typically granted within 24 to 48 hours, which shows it will become faster than it used to be.

Enhanced Security Measures: Integration with global security databases enables pre-arrival screening, allowing authorities to vet applicants against international watch lists. This proactive measure aims to bolster national security by identifying potential threats before they enter the country.

Improved Data Management: The digital system facilitates better tracking of entries and exits, aiding in the enforcement of immigration laws and overstay penalties. Automated landing and exit cards replace manual forms, ensuring accurate and timely data collection.

Challenges and Complexities

Data Privacy Concerns: The collection and storage of biometric and personal data raise questions about data protection and user privacy. The absence of comprehensive data protection legislation in Nigeria amplifies these concerns, highlighting the need for robust legal frameworks to safeguard individual rights

System Reliability Issue: Technical glitches and system downtimes can disrupt the application process, causing delays and uncertainty for travelers.

Digital Accessibility Challenges: The reliance on online platforms may be a disadvantage to individuals with limited internet access or digital literacy, potentially leading to unequal access to visa services.

Conclusion

Nigeria’s transition to a fully digital immigration system, which is marked by the implementation of the e-Visa platform and automated landing and exit cards, represents a significant stride towards modernizing border control. While this shift promises enhanced efficiency and security, it also introduces a range of legal and operational complexities that warrant careful consideration.

Thus, there should be adequate strengthening and enforcement of the existing laws on data protection, especially as it relates to data protection in border governance. Also, the appropriate authorities should invest in resilient digital infrastructure to minimize technical glitches and ensure consistent service availability. Technical glitch is a common problem in Nigeria, and they will adversely affect all stakeholders in matters of border governance.

Finally, cooperation among relevant government agencies should be encouraged in order to streamline processes and share best practices.

REFERENCE

1. Odita, S, ‘Nigeria Launches E-Visa, Digital Systems to Streamline Immigration Process’, <https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria-launches-e-visa-digital-systems-to-streamline-immigration-process/> accessed 19th May, 2025. ↑
2. Ibid. ↑
3. Akintola, Z and Caleb, C, ‘Nigeria Rolls Out E-Visa and Automate Entry System’, <https://www.aluko-oyebode.com/insights/nigeria-e-visa-automated-entry-system-2025/> accessed 19th May, 2025. ↑
4. Ibid. ↑
5. Chaman Law Firm, ‘Effortless or Hidden Hurdles? Understanding Nigeria’s Visa-on-Arrival Policy’, <https://chamanlawfirm.com/nigeria-visa-on-arrival-policy-eligibility/> accessed 19th May, 2025. ↑
6. Ibid. ↑
7. Ozor, C, ‘Welcome to Nigeria – Visa on Arrival’, <https://portal.dcsl.com.ng/data/resources/_1653655352_70X7TUT9Z2.pdf> accessed 19th May, 2025. ↑
8. Ibid. ↑
9. Ibid. ↑
10. Ibid. ↑
11. Ibid. ↑
12. CGN, ‘Tourist Visas’, <https://www.nigeriaconsulateatlanta.org/tourist-visas/> accessed 19th May, 2025. ↑
13. Oyeleke, J, ‘Countries with Visa-Free Access to Nigeria’, < https://tribuneonlineng.com/countries-with-visa-free-access-to-nigeria> accessed 19th May, 2025. ↑
14. ‘Nigeria Introduces E-Visa: Faster and Easier Entry for Global Travellers’, <https://travelobiz.com/nigeria-introduces-evisa-faster-easier-entry-for-travellers/> accessed 19th May, 2025. ↑
15. Envoy Global, ‘Nigeria Implements E-Visa System and Digital Entry Cards’, <https://www.envoyglobal.com/news-alert/nigeria-implements-e-visa-system-and-digital-entry-cards/?utm_source=chatgpt.com> accessed 19th May, 2025. ↑
16. Strietman, F, ‘Differences Nigeria eVisa vs Landing Card: What you Need in 2025’, <https://ivisatravel.com/nigeria/c/nigeria-landing-card-vs-evisa-what-is-the-difference> accessed 19th May, 2025. ↑
17. Ibid. ↑
18. Ibid. ↑
19. Ibid. ↑
20. Ibid. ↑
21. UNHR, ‘Digital Border Governance: a Human Rights Based Approach’, <https://reliefweb.int/report/world/digital-border-governance-human-rights-based-approach-september-2023> accessed 19th May, 2025. ↑
22. Ibid. ↑
23. Ibid. ↑
24. Ozkul, D, ‘Automating Immigration and Asylum: The Use of New Technologies in Migration and Asylum Governance in Europe’, <https://www.researchgate.net/publication/367350622_Automating_Immigration_and_Asylum_The_Uses_of_New_Technologies_in_Migration_and_Asylum_Governance_in_Europe> accessed 19th May, 2025. ↑
25. Ibid. ↑
26. ‘Nigeria Introduces E-Visa: Faster and Easier Entry for Global Travellers’, <https://travelobiz.com/nigeria-introduces-evisa-faster-easier-entry-for-travellers/> accessed 19th May, 2025. ↑
27. Envoy Global, ‘Nigeria Implements E-Visa System and Digital Entry Cards’, <https://www.envoyglobal.com/news-alert/nigeria-implements-e-visa-system-and-digital-entry-cards/?utm_source=chatgpt.com> accessed 19th May, 2025. ↑

Source: BarristerNG