Officials move toward e-registration program for all foreign nationals

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The Nigeria Immigration Service is preparing to launch an e-registration program.

What does the change mean? Foreign nationals will be required to appear in person at designated registration centers to complete registration and have biometrics taken.

• Implementation time frame: Ongoing.
• Who is affected: Foreign nationals residing in Nigeria or intending to remain in Nigeria for more than 90 days.
• Business impact: Employers are encouraged to work with foreign employees to make sure they register and have their biometrics taken once the program is launched at their respective state of residence.
• Next steps: The NIS has not yet released directives detailing how e-registration will be carried out, but is expected to do so soon.

Background: The NIS is undertaking the e-registration program to develop a database of foreign nationals and, according to the government, improve security through better regulated borders and stronger immigration control. Officials had planned to begin the program in July, when the NIS commissioned a new e-registration center in Abuja. Implementation was delayed, however, and it now appears likely that state registration centers will commence the e-registration program individually at different times in the coming weeks and months.

Analysis & Comments: Employers are encouraged to work with employees to ensure they are properly registered once the e-registration program begins. In the meantime, employers should consult with their immigration provider if they have questions about how the registration effort will affect their businesses. Deloitte will provide more information about the new registration procedures as it becomes available.

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