South Africans: Nigeria Landing Card now mandatory: How to avoid issues at the border

If you’re flying from South Africa to Nigeria, there’s an important new rule you should know. As of May 2025, South African passport holders must complete the Nigeria Landing Card online before arrival, in addition to securing an approved Nigeria eVisa.

Missing either of these documents could lead to entry denial or long delays at the airport.

What is the Nigeria Landing Card?

The Nigeria Landing Card is a digital arrival declaration introduced by the Nigerian authorities in 2025. It replaces the old paper forms that were previously handed out during flights and must now be completed online within 4 days before landing.

It’s mandatory for all foreign travelers, even if you already have a visa.

South African travelers: What you need to know

• You must complete the Nigeria Landing Card before flying, ideally 24–96 hours before your arrival.
• A valid Nigeria eVisa is required for South African citizens – visa on arrival has ended.
• The landing card is sent via email after submission. Print a copy as backup.
• You'll also need an exit card, which you can get through the government website 96 hours before departing Nigeria.

💡 Travel tip from our expert Femke Strietman:

“After May 30, 2025, visa on arrival will no longer be accepted. All U.S. travelers must apply for an eVisa and Landing Card online before flying.”

Nigeria Landing Card requirements and how to apply for South Africans

To complete your Nigeria Landing Card, make sure you have:

✔️ A valid South African passport

✔️ Flight information (airline, flight number, date)

✔️ Address of your stay in Nigeria (hotel, Airbnb, or host)

✔️ Your approved eVisa reference number

🛑 You must get your eVisa first – the landing card requires your visa number.

Plan your trip accordingly and find out the application timeline with the following tool:

What’s the difference between the eVisa and Landing Card?

Read our blog for more info about the differences between the Landing Card, Exit Card, and eVisa.

iVisa vs. government platform: What’s better?

About the arrival process in Nigeria

Even with all documents ready, expect some additional checks at the border, such as a facial scan and fingerprint scans. Expect extra processing time of 15–20 minutes) at immigration.

💡 Real traveler insight from Michael Zervos (Project Kosmos):

“Upon arrival, they scanned my fingerprints and took a photo. It only took a few minutes and the staff were very professional.”

If you want to skip the queues, aim to land in Lagos between 11 AM and 3 PM on a Tuesday or Wednesday – these are typically the quietest times for immigration clearance.

Health note for South Africans

Depending on your travel history, you may need to show a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate on arrival in Nigeria. Always check the latest travel health guidelines before your trip.

Also needed: Nigeria Exit Card

Before flying home, you’ll also need to complete the Nigeria Exit Card, another digital form.

• 🛬 Landing Card = required before arrival
• 🛫 Exit Card = required before departure

Apply for it via the official Exit Card portal within 96 hours of your return flight. The site can be unstable – contact iVisa if you run into issues.

Need help with your Nigeria eVisa and Landing Card applications?

We’re available 24/7 for questions or assistance. Reach out on WhatsApp or contact our support team. cohat to