Hiring a foreign national to work in Nigeria means securing the right permit before they start. The employer typically sponsors the application. Requirements and processing times have shifted; here’s the 2025 picture and what to plan for.
Main permit types. The Expatriate Quota and Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) are the core tools. The company applies for an expatriate quota position (a slot to employ a foreigner in a given role). Once approved, the individual applies for the residence permit and work authorisation. There are also Subject to Regularisation (STR) and other categories depending on role and duration. Don’t assume a business visa or tourist entry allows work — it doesn’t. Work requires a proper permit.
Who applies. The Nigerian entity that will employ the person — your local subsidiary or the EOR’s local entity — is the sponsor. They submit the quota application and support the individual’s CERPAC application. If you use an EOR, confirm in writing whether they apply for the quota and permit or whether you (or a separate immigration firm) do. Some EORs only employ once the person has a valid permit; others assist with the process. Get that clear before you promise a start date.
Typical requirements. Documentation usually includes: company registration, proof of the role and why it requires an expatriate, the foreign national’s qualifications and CV, and evidence of local recruitment efforts (to show the role can’t be filled locally). Quota positions can be tied to specific job titles and sectors. Processing times vary; 4–12 weeks is a common range, but delays happen. Budget time and use a reliable local contact or immigration advisor.
Quotas and localisation. Nigerian policy encourages hiring Nigerians where possible. Expatriate quota can be limited by sector and company size. Renewals and new applications are scrutinised. Plan for the possibility that not every role will get a quota, and that renewal might require showing continued need. Some companies use EOR in Nigeria only for roles that have already secured quota or for local nationals, and handle permit-heavy hires through a dedicated immigration partner.
Costs. Government fees, medicals, and sometimes legal or agent fees add up. Exact amounts depend on permit type and whether you use a facilitator. Factor in a few thousand dollars per person for first-time permit and first-year compliance. The EOR’s fee is separate from immigration cost.
Practical takeaways. (1) Don’t let the person start work before they have a valid work permit. (2) Confirm who handles quota and CERPAC — you, the EOR, or a third party. (3) Allow 4–12 weeks for processing and have a backup plan if it drags. (4) Keep documentation and renewal dates on your radar; lapsing permits create compliance and continuity risk. (5) For 2025, check the latest fee schedule and any new circulars from the relevant authorities; rules and fees do change.
This isn’t legal or immigration advice. Engage a Nigerian immigration lawyer or a reputable agency for application strategy and submission.