On Monday, July 15, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had lifted its visa ban on Nigerians after diplomatic agreements with the Nigerian government.
According to the minister, Nigerian passport holders can now travel to the UAE without any hindrance.
“Today, an agreement has been reached on that, and effective from today, 15th July, Nigerian passport holders are able to obtain visas to go to the United Arab Emirates.”
Idris added that the ban lifted on Nigeria came with some conditions, which included obtaining a Document Verification Number (DVN) from a website he shared with the public.
The DVN costs a non-refundable ₦640k verification fee on the website, excluding VAT for each application. In addition, Nigerians seeking a UAE visa are required to provide proof of a bank balance of $10,000.
UAE denies affiliation with DVN website
On Wednesday, July 17, two days after Minister Mohammed’s announcement, the UAE government denied its affiliation with the DVN website and the $10,000 proof of funds.
Speaking to the press, Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFAD) said:
“We are not aware of such requirements. Make your visa applications through the GDRFAD.”
Regarding whether Nigerians are required to make payments for document verification, the GDRFAD stressed that the visa application process only requires a personal photo and a passport with at least six months’ validity. A tourist visa costs approximately 200-300 dirhams (₦60k – ₦90k), depending on the length of stay.
In addition, visitors will need a travel ticket and valid medical insurance within the UAE.
Meanwhile, Eche Abu-Obe, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the ministry’s office in the Middle East would provide further clarification.
How are Nigerians reacting?
Nigerians who initially celebrated the news of the visa ban lift have since taken to social media, accusing the government of trying to fleece citizens.
This is a developing story.
