Subject-to-Regularization (STR)

Subject-to-Regularization (STR) is the entry visa issued by a Nigerian mission abroad to an expatriate taking up employment with a Nigerian company against an approved Expatriate Quota position. It is not a fast-track or emergency route: the quota approval must already be in place before the visa can be applied for.

The STR visa is a single-entry visa. After arrival, the employer files the regularization application with the Nigeria Immigration Service so the holder receives a CERPAC residence permit. Failure to regularize inside the period allowed is treated as overstay and can result in penalties and removal.

Short, task-specific assignments should go on a Temporary Work Permit rather than STR. PeaceRyde advises on the correct category, handles Expatriate Quota and STR documentation, and manages CERPAC regularization with NIS.

Expatriate staff taking up longer-term roles with a Nigerian entity

Valid passport

Approved Expatriate Quota position with the Federal Ministry of Interior

Employment offer and acceptance letters

Sponsoring company incorporation and tax documents

Undertaking to regularize into CERPAC after arrival

Issued abroad by a Nigerian mission — regularization into CERPAC after arrival

The standard entry route for expatriates joining a Nigerian company. It depends on an approved Expatriate Quota position, so it is not a same-week or emergency option.

STR application and NIS coordination

Undertaking documentation preparation

Regularization processing within 30 days

Monitoring of regularization deadlines

Airport immigration facilitation for STR entries

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if we don't regularize within 30 days?

Failure to regularize within 30 days can result in penalties, detention, and deportation. PeaceRyde monitors all STR deadlines and initiates regularization promptly to avoid any issues.