Additional CERPAC centers could speed processing

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Nigeria has opened an additional 28 Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Alien Card (CERPAC) centers.

What does the change mean? Officials hope the additional centers will speed up processing times for first-time and renewal CERPAC applications.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Alien Cards.
• Who is affected: Employers and foreign nationals in need of obtaining or renewing a CERPAC.
• Impact on processing times: Officials hope the additional centers will help the Nigeria Immigration Service fulfill its mandate to process first-time and renewal CERPAC applications in a timely manner.

Background: Officials framed the addition of the 28 centers throughout Nigeria as an effort to increase foreign investment in the country and to make it easier for companies to obtain the permits they need for their employees in a timely manner.

BAL Analysis: The additional centers should provide faster processing times for foreign nationals needing to obtain a CERPAC. Contact your BAL professional if you are in need of assistance submitting applications.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Nigeria. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

About Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP
Founded in 1980, Berry Appleman & Leiden (BAL) provides comprehensive global immigration services from six offices across the U.S. and from offices in Geneva, London, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore and Sydney. BAL manages global visa matters and customized application approaches for work permits, business visas, and residence permits in more than 100 countries. With a single cost center for worldwide operations, BAL offers centralized management with regional and local support for the complete spectrum of global immigration matters.

Source: Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP