FAQ

The Ministry of Interior Citizenship and Business Department is responsible for the grant of Business Permit and Expatriate Quota positions to Companies in line with Part V, Section 36 (1) of the Nigerian Immigration Act, 2015 and Part III, Sub-section 12 (1&) of Immigration Regulations.

Business Unit Services

1WHAT IS BUSINESS PERMIT?
A Business Permit is an official approval issued by the Ministry of Interior that authorises a company with foreign participation to legally operate in Nigeria. It is required for companies that are:
  • wholly owned by foreign investors, or
  • joint venture by foreign and Nigerian shareholders
The Business Permit confirms that the company has obtained the necessary regulatory approval from the Federal Government to carry on business activities in Nigeria in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
2WHICH COMPANIES ARE REQUIRED TO OBTAIN A BUSINESS PERMIT?
A Business Permit is required for companies that have foreign participation in their ownership structure. This includes:
  • wholly foreign-owned companies
  • joint venture companies with both foreign and Nigerian shareholders
Companies that are 100% Nigerian-owned (indigenous companies) are not required to obtain a Business Permit. However, such companies may still apply for Expatriate Quota approvals where there is a demonstrated need to employ foreign professionals.
3CAN A FOREIGN OR JOINT VENTURE COMPANY APPLY FOR AN EXPATRIATE QUOTA WITHOUT A BUSINESS PERMIT?
No. For companies with foreign participation, obtaining a Business Permit is a mandatory prerequisite for applying for an Expatriate Quota. Any application for an Expatriate Quota submitted without a valid Business Permit, or without a concurrent application for a Business Permit, will not be processed by the Ministry of Interior. Companies are therefore required to secure a Business Permit before submitting an Expatriate Quota application.
4UNDER WHAT CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD I APPLY FOR AN AMENDMENT OF BUSINESS PERMIT?
Companies that already hold a Business Permit must apply for an amendment where there are material changes to the company’s structure or operational details. An amendment is required where there are changes in:
  • the composition of the Board of Directors
  • the company’s registered address or business location
  • the nature or line of business activities as registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
  • the company name
  • ownership structure or shareholding arrangements affecting foreign participation
Failure to update the Business Permit where changes occur may result in non-compliance with regulatory requirements.
5WHAT IS AN EXPATRIATE QUOTA?
An Expatriate Quota is an approval granted by the Ministry of Interior that allows a company operating in Nigeria to employ a specified number of foreign professionals in designated positions. The Expatriate Quota system is designed to:
  • enable companies to fill skill gaps where qualified Nigerian professionals are not readily available
  • promote knowledge transfer to Nigerian employees
  • support capacity development and eventual localization of roles
Each approved quota position specifies the job title and duration for which a foreign national may be employed.
6WHAT IS AN ESTABLISHMENT GRANT?
An Establishment Grant is the initial approval issued to a newly registered company to employ expatriates under the Expatriate Quota system. It applies to:
  • wholly foreign-owned companies
  • joint venture companies
  • indigenous companies
  • non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
The Establishment Grant is typically valid for an initial period of three (3) years, after which the company may apply for renewal of the approved quota positions.
7WHAT IS AN ADDITIONAL EXPATRIATE QUOTA?
An Additional Expatriate Quota is an approval granted to a company that already holds an Establishment Grant but requires additional expatriate positions due to expansion of its business operations. Companies may apply for additional quota slots where:
  • Business activities have increased
  • new projects require specialized expertise
  • operational needs justify engagement of additional foreign professionals
Additional quota positions are typically granted for a period of two (2) years and may be renewed subject to continued justification.
8WHAT IS A RENEWAL OF EXPATRIATE QUOTA?
A Renewal of Expatriate Quota allows companies to extend the validity of existing expatriate quota positions beyond the initial approval period. The standard renewal structure is as follows:
  • first renewal: granted after the initial three (3) year Establishment Grant period
  • second renewal: granted for an additional period of two (2) years
Renewal applications must demonstrate continued need for the expatriate role and evidence of efforts to train Nigerians to assume the position in the future.
9WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A QUOTA POSITION REACHES THE END OF ITS 7-YEAR LIFESPAN?
Expatriate Quota positions are generally expected to be localised after a maximum period of seven (7) years. Localisation means that the role should be transferred to a qualified Nigerian employee. Where a company is unable to localise the position within this period, it may apply for De-tagging. De-tagging is a formal request to remove the 7-year restriction, allowing the position to remain eligible for renewal. Approval of De-tagging is subject to satisfactory justification and supporting evidence.
10CAN THE TITLE OF AN APPROVED QUOTA POSITION BE CHANGED?
Yes. A company may apply for Re-designation where there is a need to change the title or function of an existing approved quota position. Re-designation may be necessary where:
  • the company is unable to recruit for the originally approved role
  • operational priorities have changed
  • organizational restructuring requires adjustment of job roles
Approval is subject to justification demonstrating that the revised role aligns with the company’s operational needs.
11HOW LONG CAN A COMPANY MAINTAIN A SPECIFIC EXPATRIATE QUOTA POSITION?
Expatriate Quota positions are generally approved for a maximum cumulative period of seven (7) years. During this period, companies are expected to implement training and capacity development programmes to enable qualified Nigerians to assume the roles. At the end of the 7-year period, the position is expected to be localized unless special approval is granted.
12WHAT IS UPGRADE TO PUR?
Upgrade to Permanent Until Review (PUR) is a special status granted to selected key expatriate positions that are considered critical to the sustainability of foreign investment in Nigeria. PUR status is typically granted for positions such as:
  • Managing Director
  • Chief Executive Officer
  • Chairman
  • Technical Director
PUR allows the position to remain occupied by a foreign national without being subject to the standard 7-year localisation requirement. Approval is based on the strategic importance of the role to the company’s investment and operations.
13CAN A NEW COMPANY APPLY FOR PUR STATUS IMMEDIATELY?
Yes. A newly registered company may apply for PUR status at the time of applying for its Establishment Grant. Companies may request PUR status for a limited number of key management positions in order to ensure continuity of leadership and protect foreign investment interests. Approval is subject to evaluation by the Ministry of Interior.
14WHAT IS REVALIDATION OF PUR?
Revalidation of PUR is the process through which companies holding Permanent Until Review (PUR) quota positions confirm continued compliance with prevailing government policies. Where there are changes in immigration or expatriate employment regulations, companies may be required to apply for revalidation to ensure that previously granted PUR positions remain valid.
15WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY APPLICATION IS PARTIALLY APPROVED OR REJECTED?
Where an application is partially approved or declined, the company may submit an Appeal to the Ministry of Interior. For example, where a company applies for a specific number of quota positions but fewer positions are approved, the company may request reconsideration of the outstanding positions. Appeals must include:
  • a formal justification
  • additional supporting documentation
  • evidence demonstrating the need for the requested positions
Each appeal is reviewed on its merits.
16WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES OF OPERATING WITHOUT A BUSINESS PERMIT OR EXPATRIATE QUOTA APPROVAL?
Operating a company with foreign participation without obtaining the required Business Permit or employing expatriates without approved quota positions constitutes a violation of Nigerian immigration regulations. Consequences may include:
  • administrative penalties and fines
  • revocation of approvals
  • deportation of unauthorised expatriate personnel
  • suspension or closure of business operations
Companies are strongly advised to ensure full compliance with all regulatory requirements.
17HOW DO I APPLY AND TRACK MY APPLICATION?
All applications for Business Permits and Expatriate Quota approvals are processed online through the Citizenship and Business Department Portal. Application steps:
  1. Register: Create a company profile on the portal.
  2. Apply: Complete the relevant application forms and upload required supporting documents such as incorporation documents and tax records.
  3. Pay: Make payment through the secure online payment platform.
  4. Track: Monitor application status through the company dashboard. Status updates may include Pending, Queried, or Approved.

CItizenship Unit Services

1WHAT IS RENUNCIATION OF NIGERIA CITIZENSHIP?
Renunciation of Nigeria citizenship is a formal voluntary legal process under section 29 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) where a citizen over 18 years declares to cease being a Nigerian, requiring Presidential approval. It is required for companies that are:
  • wholly owned by foreign investors, or
  • joint venture by foreign and Nigerian shareholders
The Business Permit confirms that the company has obtained the necessary regulatory approval from the Federal Government to carry on business activities in Nigeria in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
2WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR RENUNCIATION OF NIGERIAN CITIZENSHIP?
Only individuals of full age (18) and above, can apply.
3WHO IS THE APPROVING AUTHORITY?
Renunciation is not effective until registered by the President of Nigeria who may withhold it during times of war or if it goes against public policy.
4CAN A NIGERIAN WHO HAVE RENOUNCED HIS NIGERIAN CITIZENSHIP RECOVER IT BACK?
Yes, a person who has formally renounced their Nigerian citizenship can potentially recover it, but it is not automatic. The renounced Nigerian citizen shall come into Nigeria with a visitor visa, get Permit to stay in Nigeria, go through subsequent renewals of Permit or CERPAC until fifteen years, before he/she can apply for citizenship by Naturalization.
5CAN RENOUNCED NIGERIAN CITIZENS RECOVER THEIR NIGERIAN CITIZENSHIP BY BIRTH?
No, a renounced Nigerian citizen can only recover Nigerian citizenship by Naturalization and not by birth.
6WHAT IS THE PROCESSING PERIOD FOR RENUNCIATION OF NIGERIAN CITIZENSHIP?
The processing period of renunciation of Nigeria citizenship is between one month to eight months but usually at President’s discretion.
7WHAT IS NATURALIZATION OF NIGERIAN CITIZENSHIP?
Naturalization of Nigerian citizenship is the legal process under Section 27 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) by which a foreign national voluntarily acquires Nigerian nationality. It requires a minimum of 15 years of continuous residency, good character, proof of integration (language/custom) and a personal application.
8WHAT ARE THE THREE TYPES OF CITIZENSHIP?
According to 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) there are three types of citizenship:
  • Citizenship by Birth
  • Citizenship by Registration and
  • Citizenship by Naturalization
9CAN NATURALIZED NIGERIANS TRANSFER AUTOMATIC CITIZENSHIP TO THEIR CHILDREN?
Yes, a naturalized Nigerian citizen can transfer citizenship to children born after acquisition of Nigerian citizenship.
10WHAT IS THE POSITION OF CHILDREN WHO WERE BORN BEFORE NATURALIZATION?
Children who were born before naturalization does not have automatic citizenship but will apply for Nigerian citizenship when they are eighteen (18) years of age.
11WHAT IS SPECIAL IMMIGRANT STATUS? (SIS)
Special Immigrant Status is designed for foreign nationals married to Nigerian citizens, allowing them to live and work in Nigeria without requiring a standard renewable, employer-tied expatriate quota.
12WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR SPECIAL IMMIGRANT STATUS?
It is primarily for foreign men and women married to Nigerian citizens. The marriage must be legal, and they need to have been resident in Nigeria for a period of five years to qualify.
13WHAT IS CONFIRMATION OF MARRIAGE?
Confirmation of marriage is an official backup document issued by the ministry for couples who got married at local government area, Islamic or traditional.
14WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR CONFIRMATION OF MARRIAGE?
Those eligible for confirmation of marriage are:
  • Couples with Local Government Area, Customs or Islamic marriage certificate.
  • Couples who need to legalized their marriage for official and consular purpose.
15WHAT IS ATTESTATION OF BACHELORHOOD/ SPINSTERHOOD?
Attestation of Bachelorhood/Spinsterhood is required by a foreign spouse who want to get married in the country of their residence. The applicant is expected to present an affidavit to the Ministry from the High Court to prove that he/she is single and has never been married before or divorce or widowed.
16WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR ATTESTATION OF BACHELORHOOD/SPINSTERHOOD?
  • Every Nigerian citizen who is single and want to get married in a foreign Country where they reside.
  • Every Nigerian citizen who is divorced.
  • Every Nigerian citizen who has a child/children out of wedlock.
  • Every Nigerian widow or widower.
17AUTHORITIES REQUESTING FOR ATTESTATION OF BACHELORHOOD/ SPINSTERHOOD?
Attestation of Bachelorhood and Spinsterhood is required by Immigration for marriage purpose/consular matters for citizenship.
18WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ATTESTATION ISSUED BY THE  MINISTRY?
  • Attestation of Bachelorhood and Spinsterhood.
  • Attestation of Marital Status.
  • Attestation of Nigerian Citizenship.
  • Attestation of Change of Name.

Marriage and Places of Public Worship (PPW)

1WHAT IS A STATUTORY MARRIAGE?
A statutory marriage is a legally recognized marriage conducted under the Marriage Act and registered by the appropriate government authority. It provides legal protection and recognition under civil law.
2WHAT IS MEANT BY A “PUBLIC PLACE OF WORSHIP” FOR MARRIAGE PURPOSES?
A Public Place of Worship refers to a church, chapel, cathedral, or other recognized religious worship center that is open to the public and seeks government approval to conduct statutory marriages.
3WHY MUST A PLACE OF WORSHIP BE LICENSED TO CONDUCT STATUTORY MARRIAGES?
Licensing ensures that marriages conducted at the worship center are legally valid and recognized by the government under the Marriage Act.
4WHICH AUTHORITY IS RESPONSIBLE FOR LICENSING PLACES OF WORSHIP FOR STATUTORY MARRIAGES?
The responsible authority is usually the Ministry of Interior.
5WHO CAN APPLY FOR THE REGISTRATION/LICENSING?
The application is typically made by: Authorized PPW representative
6WHAT DOCUMENTS ARE USUALLY REQUIRED FOR THE APPLICATION?
Commonly required documents include:
  • Application letter;
  • Certificate of incorporation/registration of the religious organization;
  • Constitution of the organization;
  • Evidence of trusteeship;
  • Photographs of the worship center;
  • Evidence of ownership or tenancy of the premises;
  • Valid identification of officials;
7IS INSPECTION OF THE WORSHIP CENTER REQUIRED?
Yes. Government officials inspect the premises to confirm suitability, accessibility, seating capacity, and compliance with legal requirements.
8ARE THERE SPECIFIC CONDITIONS THE WORSHIP CENTER MUST SATISFY?
Yes. Conditions may include:
  • Permanent and identifiable place of worship;
  • Adequate seating arrangement;
  • Accessibility to the public;
  • Proper record-keeping facilities;
  • Good standing of the religious organization.
  • Fire proof safe;
9HOW LONG DOES THE LICENSING PROCESS TAKE?
Processing timelines vary depending on the authority and completeness of the submitted documents. Delays may occur if additional information or inspections are required.
10IS THERE AN APPLICATION OR LICENSING FEE?
Yes. Prescribed fees are usually payable for processing, inspection, and issuance of the license.
11HOW LONG IS THE LICENSE VALID?
Licenses may remain valid indefinitely and it requires periodic renewal. Applicants should confirm the applicable regulations.
12CAN A BRANCH OF A RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATION APPLY SEPARATELY?
Yes, provided the branch satisfies the licensing requirements and obtains authorization from the parent religious organization where necessary.
13WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPROVAL?
Once approved: applicants pay for marriage certificate The worship center becomes authorized to conduct statutory marriages; Marriage registers may be issued or approved for official use.
14CAN A LICENSED WORSHIP CENTER ISSUE MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE?
Yes. Authorized marriage certificates may be issued in accordance with the law and approved government procedures.
15CAN THE LICENSE BE REVOKED?
Yes. A license may be revoked if the worship center:
  • Violates marriage laws;
  • Conducts fraudulent marriages;
  • Fails to maintain proper records; or
  • Ceases to function as a recognized place of worship.
16WHAT RECORDS MUST LICENSED PLACES OF WORSHIP MAINTAIN?
They are generally required to maintain:
  • Marriage registers;
  • Copies of marriage certificates issued;
  • Records of notices, banns, and licenses;
  • Other statutory documentation.
17CAN MARRIAGES CONDUCTED IN AN UNLICENSED WORSHIP CENTER BE RECOGNIZED?
Generally, marriages conducted in an unlicensed place of worship is not qualify as valid statutory marriages under the law.
18CAN A WORSHIP CENTER CONDUCT BOTH CUSTOMARY/RELIGIOUS AND STATUTORY MARRIAGES?
Yes. However, statutory marriages must comply with the requirements of the Marriage Act and be conducted by an authorized officiating minister in a licensed place of worship.
19WHO IS AUTHORIZED TO OFFICIATE STATUTORY MARRIAGES?
Usually:
  • Licensed ministers of religion;
  • Clergy recognized by the religious body; and
  • Persons authorized under the Marriage Act.
20WHAT SHOULD APPLICANTS DO IF THEIR APPLICATION IS REJECTED?
Applicants may:
  • Request clarification on the reasons for rejection;
  • Correct identified deficiencies; and
  • Reapply or appeal where applicable.
21CAN THE NAME OR LOCATION OF A LICENSED WORSHIP CENTER BE CHANGED?
Yes, but the licensing authority must be notified and approval may be required before changes take effect.
22IS PUBLICATION OF NOTICE REQUIRED BEFORE APPROVAL?
In some jurisdictions, notice of the application may be published to allow objections from the public before final approval is granted.
23WHAT OBLIGATIONS DOES A LICENSED WORSHIP CENTER HAVE AFTER LICENSING?
The worship center must:
  • Comply with marriage laws and regulations;
  • Maintain accurate records;
  • Allow official inspections when required; and
  • Report marriages conducted as prescribed.
24WHERE CAN APPLICANTS OBTAIN FURTHER INFORMATION OR APPLICATION FORMS?
Applicants can obtain more information on the official email of the Citizenship and Business Department: candb.interior.gov.ng
This Department is also responsible for upholding the Marriage Act, CAP M6, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (2004) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

APPLY FOR BUSINESS PERMIT

APPLY FOR CITIZENSHIP