Nigerian and other African travellers have been advised to check the validity of their international passports before embarking on trips, as at least 20 African countries require a minimum of six months’ validity for entry.
According to updated travel guidelines, many nations on the continent now enforce the six-month rule in line with international best practices. The requirement means that visitors must hold passports valid for at least six months beyond their date of entry, regardless of the length of stay permitted.
Immigration experts warn that failure to meet this condition often results in denial of boarding by airlines or refusal of entry at border posts. The rule is aimed at ensuring travellers have sufficient documentation throughout their stay and to avoid complications in cases of emergency extensions.
The 20 African countries currently enforcing the rule include:
- South Africa
- Kenya
- Ghana
- Egypt
- Morocco
- Ethiopia
- Rwanda
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Botswana
- Namibia
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
- Senegal
- Gambia
- Sierra Leone
- Liberia
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Cape Verde
Travel agents and immigration officials have urged passport holders to renew their documents well in advance of expiration. They also stressed that compliance with validity rules will prevent avoidable disruptions to travel plans, especially for students, business travellers, and tourists.
With rising international travel from Nigeria and other parts of West Africa, authorities continue to emphasize passport renewal campaigns to reduce the risk of last-minute cancellations and stranded passengers.
