For Nigerian travelers, visa approval times can make or break a travel plan. Whether for tourism, business, study, or relocation, obtaining a visa quickly is essential for smooth international travel. While some countries have lengthy visa processing times, others offer fast approvals, sometimes within a few days.
This article highlights the top countries with quick visa turnaround times for Nigerians, the types of visas they offer, their application processes, and tips to speed up approval.
1. United Arab Emirates (UAE) – 24 to 72 Hours
Why Choose the UAE?
The UAE, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is one of the fastest countries for Nigerians to obtain a visa. The UAE is popular for business, tourism, and work opportunities.
Visa Types and Processing Time
- Tourist Visa (30 or 60 days) – 24 to 72 hours
- Transit Visa (48 to 96 hours) – 24 hours
- Work Visa – Around 7-10 days after employer approval
Application Process
- Apply through a UAE airline (Emirates, Etihad), hotel, travel agency, or the UAE visa processing centers.
- Submit a scanned copy of your passport, passport-size photo, and proof of accommodation.
- Pay the visa fee, and approval is typically granted within 1 to 3 days.
Why It’s Fast
The UAE uses an electronic visa system (eVisa) for quick processing, making it ideal for last-minute travelers.
2. Turkey – 24 to 48 Hours (E-Visa)
Why Choose Turkey?
Turkey is an excellent travel destination for Nigerians looking for a mix of culture, history, and business opportunities.
Visa Types and Processing Time
- E-Visa for Tourism & Business – 24 to 48 hours
- Sticker Visa (Business, Study, Work, Residence) – 2 to 4 weeks
Application Process for E-Visa
- Visit https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/
- Fill out the application form.
- Pay the visa fee ($50).
- Receive your visa within 24 to 48 hours via email.
Why It’s Fast
Turkey offers an eVisa system that simplifies the application process, provided you meet the criteria.
3. Kenya – 24 to 48 Hours (E-Visa)
Why Choose Kenya?
Kenya is a top African destination for tourism, business, and studies. Nigerians can easily obtain a visa through the eVisa system.
Visa Types and Processing Time
- Tourist eVisa – 24 to 48 hours
- Business eVisa – 24 to 72 hours
- Transit Visa – 24 hours
Application Process
- Visit https://www.evisa.go.ke
- Fill out the online form.
- Upload a passport photo and passport biodata page.
- Pay the visa fee ($51).
- Receive your visa via email within 48 hours.
Why It’s Fast
Kenya’s eVisa system makes it easy for Nigerians to get quick approvals for travel.
4. Rwanda – 24 to 48 Hours (E-Visa & Visa on Arrival)
Why Choose Rwanda?
Rwanda is one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies and a favorite destination for business travelers and tourists.
Visa Types and Processing Time
- Tourist eVisa – 24 to 48 hours
- Business eVisa – 24 to 48 hours
- Visa on Arrival – Instant approval at the airport
Application Process
- Apply online at https://irembo.gov.rw.
- Submit required documents (passport, flight details, accommodation proof).
- Pay the visa fee ($50 for a tourist visa).
- Get your visa within 48 hours or on arrival at the airport.
Why It’s Fast
Nigerians can either get an eVisa or obtain a visa on arrival without any hassle.
5. Seychelles – Visa-Free (Travel Authorization in 24 Hours)
Why Choose Seychelles?
Seychelles offers visa-free entry to Nigerians, making it one of the easiest destinations to visit. However, a travel authorization is required.
Processing Time
- Travel Authorization – 24 hours
Application Process
- Visit https://seychelles.govtas.com.
- Submit passport details, flight ticket, hotel booking, and proof of funds.
- Pay a processing fee.
- Receive your travel authorization within 24 hours.
Why It’s Fast
No visa is required; just a simple travel authorization process.
6. Singapore – 3 to 5 Days
Why Choose Singapore?
Singapore is a leading business hub and tourist destination with a streamlined visa process for Nigerians.
Visa Types and Processing Time
- Tourist Visa – 3 to 5 days
- Business Visa – 3 to 5 days
Application Process
- Apply through an accredited travel agent in Nigeria.
- Provide passport details, flight ticket, hotel booking, and a letter of introduction.
- Pay the visa fee.
- Visa is processed in 3 to 5 days.
Why It’s Fast
Singapore’s system is efficient, with pre-verified agencies handling applications.
7. Qatar – 24 to 72 Hours (E-Visa & Visa on Arrival)
Why Choose Qatar?
Qatar offers an eVisa system that makes approvals fast and easy for Nigerians.
Visa Types and Processing Time
- Tourist eVisa – 24 to 72 hours
- Business Visa – 3 to 7 days
- Visa on Arrival – Available for certain travelers
Application Process
- Apply online at https://www.qatarvisaservice.com.
- Submit required documents.
- Pay the visa fee ($27).
- Receive approval within 24 to 72 hours.
Why It’s Fast
The eVisa system allows travelers to get approvals quickly without visiting an embassy.
8. Maldives – Visa on Arrival (Instant)
Why Choose Maldives?
Nigerians can travel to Maldives without a prior visa application and obtain one on arrival.
Processing Time
- Visa on Arrival – Immediate approval at the airport
Application Process
- Provide passport, return ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds.
- Receive a free 30-day visa at the airport.
Why It’s Fast
No pre-application required, making it ideal for last-minute travel.
Tips to Speed Up Visa Approval
- Apply Online (eVisa) Where Possible – Countries with eVisas process applications faster
- Submit Accurate Documents – Incomplete applications cause delays.
- Use Accredited Travel Agents – Some countries, like Singapore, require agency applications.
- Apply Early – Even for fast visas, applying at least a week before travel helps.
- Ensure Passport Validity – Many countries require at least 6 months’ validity.
For Nigerians seeking fast visa approvals, countries like the UAE, Turkey, Kenya, Rwanda, and Qatar offer quick turnaround times, often within 24 to 72 hours. Others like Seychelles and Maldives even provide visa-free or visa-on-arrival options.
By choosing the right destination and ensuring all requirements are met, Nigerian travelers can enjoy hassle-free trips with minimal visa delays.
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