Temporary work permit (TWP) is a short time permit issued to foreigners encouraging them to work in Nigeria for a limited period of time. The Temporary Work Permit visa does not guarantee permanent residency in Nigeria. Foreigners coming into Nigeria for a short term employment purpose are expected to obtain the TWP by law from the Nigerian Consulate in their country of residence.
The foreigners eligible to obtain TWP are expatriates invited by corporate bodies registered in Nigeria to provide specialized skill services.
There are however, some important things to note about TWP in Nigeria. These are:
- You can apply for TWP if you intend to travel to Nigeria for a minimum of one day and three months.
- TWP Visa permits only one entry.
- You can apply for TWP Visa for any kind of work in Nigeria.
- TWP can be issued to companies and organizations who intend to visit Nigeria for expatriate services for a short period of time.
- The TWP applicants apply directly to the Comptroller-General of Immigration (CGI) as the TWP Visa will not be issued without direct reference to the CGI.
Procedure and Steps for TWP in Nigeria
- The first step for the TWP application is for the corporate body inviting the expatriate into Nigeria to file a formal request to the Comptroller General of Immigration (CGI) on behalf of the expatriates stating the details of the expatriate.
- The said application to CGI must be accompanied with the following documents in support of the application:
- The company profile
- Certificate of Incorporation of the company
- CAC Forms evidencing particulars of directors and share capital of the company
- Copy of data page of the Expatriates international passport
- Evidence of existing contract or purchase/ importation of machinery or equipment and any other documents that may be required.
- The foreign applicant is required to pay the necessary fee online and obtain the receipt of payment. It is important to note that a successful payment of fees does not mean the TWP permit has been approved.
- Upon the approval by the CGI, the Expatriate will apply at the Nigerian mission abroad accompany necessary requirements.
Requirements for Temporary Work Permit in Nigeria
- Visa approval letter (pre-approved visa letter) valid for 90 days from the date of issuance
- International passport with 6 months’ validity and at least two blank pages for the visa endorsement
- Two (2) passport sized photographs measuring 35/40 mm on a white background taken within the last 6 months.
- Duly completed visa Form IMM22.
- Evidence of payment of visa fee.
The validity period for a Temporary Work Permit is 90 days from the date of application and applicant may be invited for an interview where necessary.
The application fees to be paid by the applicant for the Temporary Work Permit are contained in the NIS schedule of fees.
In conclusion, it is necessary that the above-established guidelines are followed when applying for a Temporary Work Permit visa in Nigeria, as failure to furnish necessary requirements and comply with application procedure may lead to a refusal of such application.