Nigeria visa requirements for South Africa citizens (2026)

Do South Africa citizens need a visa for Nigeria?

Apply online before travel. Approval is linked to your passport.

South Africa passport holders can currently enter 88 destinations visa-free or with a visa on arrival, and 41 more with an online ETA or e-Visa. Nigeria admits 18 of 198 passports without a full visa (visa-free, on arrival or ETA).

Documents required for the Nigeria e-Visa

• Scan of the passport data page (valid 6+ months)
• Recent passport-style digital photo, plain background
• Travel dates, entry point and accommodation details
• Return or onward ticket
• Payment card for the government fee

General checklist for this type of entry — not an official list. Requirements vary by purpose and personal circumstances; we confirm the exact list for your case when you apply.

Nigeria e-Visa processing time

3–10 business days (estimate). This is a general estimate for this type of application, not an official figure. Apply well before your travel date.

Nigeria e-Visa cost

We have not verified the official government fee for South Africa citizens, so we don’t state one. The official portal shows the current fee before you pay.

With Tripsol: from $75 per traveler, all-in. Total includes government fees where applicable and our service fee.

How to apply for the Nigeria e-Visa

1. Prepare a passport scan and a compliant photo.
2. Apply online — with us or on the official portal — and pay the fee.
3. Wait for approval (see processing time) and download the e-visa.
4. Print a copy and travel with the passport used to apply.

Prefer a human to check it? Apply with Tripsol, or apply yourself on the official portal (Nigeria Immigration Service).

Recent Nigeria entry rule changes

• 2025-05-01: e-Visa system launched, replacing visa on arrival for short visits.

Entry tips for Nigeria

• Fees vary by visa type and nationality and are paid online.
• Local currency is Nigerian naira (NGN) — carry a card that works abroad and some cash for arrival costs.
• Buy travel medical insurance that covers your whole stay.
• An eSIM bought before you fly means data as soon as you land — handy for showing bookings at immigration.

Nigeria at a glance

Sources & last verified

The visa requirement on this page is derived from the open passport-index dataset (updated 17 Feb 2026) and has not been individually verified by our team. Documents and steps are general guidance. Always verify with the official source before travel.