Who Needs CERPAC Registration: Nigerians or Foreigners?

CERPAC registration is strictly for foreigners living, working, or studying in Nigeria – not Nigerian citizens.

The new online portal, launched on 1st August 2025, allows expatriates, foreign students, and spouses of Nigerians to register for legal residence, identification, and compliance with immigration laws.

With the Federal Government launching the online registration portal for the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) on 1st August 2025, many are asking: Who really needs CERPAC—Nigerians or foreigners?

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has clarified that CERPAC is specifically for foreigners residing or working in Nigeria, not for Nigerian citizens.

Who Needs CERPAC Registration?

1. Expatriates Employed in Nigeria
   • Any foreigner working for a Nigerian company, business, or NGO must obtain a CERPAC card.
2. Foreign Students in Nigerian Institutions
   • International students are required to register for legal residence and identification.
3. Foreigners Married to Nigerian Citizens
   • Even if married to a Nigerian, foreign spouses need CERPAC for legal stay.
4. Business and Permit Holders
   • Foreign investors and entrepreneurs operating in Nigeria also need to register.

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Who Does NOT Need CERPAC?

• Nigerian Citizens
  CERPAC is strictly for expatriates; Nigerians do not require it for any purpose.
• Short-term Visitors
  Tourists and visitors on short-term visas do not need CERPAC unless they plan to reside, study, or work in Nigeria.

Why CERPAC is Important for Foreigners

1. Legal Residence – Confirms that the foreigner is lawfully staying in Nigeria.
2. Identification – Serves as an official form of ID for foreigners.
3. Compliance – Helps expatriates and companies adhere to Nigerian immigration laws.

The new online portal at https://cerpac.immigration.gov.ng now allows foreigners to apply, pay, and submit required documents digitally, ending the era of physical applications as of 31st July 2025.

Government’s Position on Immigration Reforms

Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, explained that the transition to online registration is part of broader reforms to streamline border control, expatriate quotas, and compliance with immigration regulations.

“Expatriates will no longer have to stress or lobby for the document. They will simply fill the forms online and receive their documents via email,” he said.

He also emphasized that companies attempting to evade immigration regulations will face strict sanctions.