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Nigeria

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At a glance

Living index rating
Very affordable
Monthly rent
₦30,000 – ₦150,000 in a university hostel (often paid per session); city flats much higher
Monthly food
₦100,000 – ₦200,000
Other monthly expenses
₦50,000 – ₦120,000 (transport, utilities, generator fuel, phone)
Visa processing time
STR visa usually 2 – 6 weeks; CERPAC after arrival
Family allowed for students
Limited

Visa requirements

  • Non-ECOWAS students enter on a Subject to Regularisation (STR) visa for study, sponsored by the university
  • Within 90 days, register with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) for a CERPAC residence card (student fee about US$600 a year)
  • Admission letter, passport, proof of funds and biometrics
  • ECOWAS citizens don't need a visa but should register their stay
  • Work outside your studies generally needs separate approval from the NIS

Work permit after studies

  • No post-study work visa
  • Working needs a job with an employer who holds an expatriate quota, an STR visa for employment and a work CERPAC

Citizenship route

  • No routine permanent residence route for former students
  • Naturalisation needs at least 15 years of residence and is rare

Family details

  • An STR sponsor can sometimes include an accompanying spouse and children, but this is mainly for employees
  • Students' families usually visit on visitor visas

Universities in Nigeria

Top-ranked

All other universities and colleges (312), A–Z

This guide is for general information. Visa and immigration rules change often, so always check the official government website before you apply. Last updated 6 October 2026.