Nigeria Ends Hard Copy Residence Permit August 1
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) on Wednesday announced that it will discontinue physical/hard copies of the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Automated Card (CERPAC) application process by August 1, 2025.
The NIS also revealed the launch of a new digital platform for the CERPAC application process.
CERPAC is Nigeria’s official residence permit for foreigners seeking legal stay, employment, or study.
It supports biometric registration and ensures immigration compliance.
The system offers two types: the Green Card for resident workers and the Brown Card for students, missionaries, and diplomats.
The permit is renewable annually through the NIS.
The NIS Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, said the transition aligns with the federal government’s reform agenda aimed at improving immigration service delivery.
Akinlabi said the new portal will allow applicants to submit their CERPAC applications online, a move intended to enhance transparency, efficiency, and the overall user experience.
“The public should take note that from August 1st, 2025, the use of physical CERPAC forms will be discontinued, and all CERPAC applications after July 31st, 2025, must be submitted solely through the online portal.
“Meanwhile, applicants with paid, but un-submitted CERPAC forms are advised to complete and submit them on or before July 31st, 2025, to avoid loss of application status and associated payments.
“Similarly, the NIS advises individuals and companies assuming Immigration Responsibility for expatriates to complete all pending submissions within the stipulated timeframe to avoid any inconvenience.
“Consequently, any CERPAC form not submitted after the deadline will be rendered void and invalid,” Akinlabi said.
He also directed all enquiries and correspondence on the matter to be addressed through his office.
Nigeria Ends Hard Copy Residence Permit August 1 is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
