The Nigeria Immigration Service has unveiled a new digital platform for the application and processing of the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card, as part of ongoing efforts to modernize the country’s immigration system.

In a statement signed by the NIS Public Relations Officer, ACI Kenneth Kure Akinlabi, the agency confirmed that the online portal—https://cerpac.immigration.gov.ng—is now live, allowing individuals and organizations to electronically complete and submit expatriate permit applications.

The move aligns with broader Federal Government reforms aimed at boosting transparency, operational efficiency, and user experience across key public services.

With the platform’s launch, the NIS has set a firm deadline for transitioning to the digital system. Starting August 1, 2025, all CERPAC applications must be processed through the portal, as manual submissions will no longer be accepted.

Applicants who have already paid for but not yet submitted physical forms must do so by July 31, 2025, or risk invalidation of their applications and forfeiture of related payments. The NIS also urged all companies and individuals with pending immigration responsibilities to finalize outstanding submissions before the cutoff to avoid service disruptions.

The agency emphasized that any CERPAC application not submitted by the deadline will be rendered void.

“Responsibility for expatriates to complete all pending submissions within the stipulated timeframe to avoid any inconvenience. Consequently, any CERPAC form not submitted after the deadline will be rendered void and invalid.

“All enquiries and correspondence on this matter should be directed to the Service through the office of the Public Relations Officer,” the statement read.

The Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card is an official document issued by the Nigeria Immigration Service to authorize and regulate the stay of foreign nationals living and working in Nigeria.

The CERPAC serves as both a residence permit and an identification card, granting foreign nationals the legal right to live, work, or conduct business in Nigeria for a specified period—typically up to one year, with the option for renewal.