If you are a foreigner living or doing business in Nigeria, then you must have heard about the CERPAC. CERPAC stands for Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card, and it is a permit that is required for all foreigners who intend to stay or work in Nigeria for more than 90 days. In this article, we will be discussing everything you need to know about CERPAC, including the cost of obtaining one.
What is CERPAC?
CERPAC is a permit that allows foreigners to legally live, work or do business in Nigeria for more than 90 days. It is issued by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and it is a requirement for all non-Nigerians who intend to reside or work in Nigeria for an extended period. This permit is essential for those who want to avoid being deported, fined or having their operations shut down by the government.
Who Needs CERPAC?
All non-Nigerians who intend to work or reside in Nigeria for more than 90 days are required to obtain a CERPAC. This includes foreigners who want to work for companies, do business, study or reside in Nigeria. Even those who are married to Nigerians are required to obtain a CERPAC if they intend to reside or work in Nigeria for more than 90 days.
How to Obtain CERPAC?
Obtaining a CERPAC is a straightforward process. The first step is to visit the NIS website and fill out an application form. You will be required to provide your passport details, a copy of your visa, and other relevant documents. After submitting your application, you will be required to pay a processing fee, which is non-refundable.
The processing fee for CERPAC varies depending on the nationality of the applicant. For citizens of ECOWAS countries, the processing fee is $200, while citizens of other countries are required to pay $1,000. This fee is payable to the Nigeria Immigration Service.
After paying the processing fee, you will be required to visit the NIS office in person to complete the application process. You will be required to provide your biometric data, including fingerprints and a photograph. Once your application has been approved, you will be issued a CERPAC.
How Much Is CERPAC in Nigeria?
The cost of obtaining a CERPAC in Nigeria varies depending on the nationality of the applicant. As mentioned earlier, citizens of ECOWAS countries are required to pay $200, while citizens of other countries are required to pay $1,000. This fee is payable to the Nigeria Immigration Service.
It is essential to note that the cost of obtaining a CERPAC is not the only expense you will incur as a foreigner living or doing business in Nigeria. You will also need to pay for accommodation, transportation, health insurance, and other living expenses, which can vary depending on your location and lifestyle.
Why is CERPAC Important?
CERPAC is essential for foreigners who intend to stay or work in Nigeria for an extended period. Without a CERPAC, you will be considered an illegal immigrant, and you may face deportation, fines or have your operations shut down by the government. CERPAC also provides security and protection for foreigners, as it allows them to operate legally and avoid harassment by law enforcement agencies.
Conclusion
Obtaining a CERPAC in Nigeria is essential for foreigners who intend to reside, study or work in the country for more than 90 days. The cost of obtaining a CERPAC varies depending on the nationality of the applicant, but it is a non-refundable processing fee payable to the Nigeria Immigration Service. As a foreigner in Nigeria, it is essential to comply with the laws and regulations to avoid deportation, fines or having your operations shut down by the government.
FAQs
- How long does it take to obtain a CERPAC in Nigeria?
It takes about 4-6 weeks to obtain a CERPAC in Nigeria. - Can I apply for a CERPAC online?
Yes, you can apply for a CERPAC online by visiting the NIS website. - Can I renew my CERPAC?
Yes, you can renew your CERPAC by visiting the NIS office and providing the required documents and fees. - What happens if I overstay my CERPAC validity period?
If you overstay your CERPAC validity period, you may face deportation, fines or have your operations shut down by the government. - How do I know if my CERPAC is genuine?
You can verify the authenticity of your CERPAC by visiting the NIS website and entering the unique code on your card.
