Nigeria Landing Card for Chinese citizens: Don't get denied entry

If you're flying from China to Nigeria, there are two important travel requirements you can’t skip. As of May 2025, all Chinese passport holders must complete the Nigeria Landing Card before arrival in addition to having an eVisa.

Find out how to get both below and apply instantly online.

What is the Nigeria Landing Card?

The Nigeria Landing Card is a digital entry form introduced in 2025. It replaces the old paper cards previously handed out during flights.

It’s required before you land in Nigeria and helps immigration authorities process your arrival more efficiently.

Nigeria entry facts for Chinese passport holders

• Landing Card is required even with an eVisa or exemption: You need both to enter Nigeria without issues.

• Must be completed within 96 hours before landing: iVisa ensures your application is submitted on time.

• Sent by email: You’ll receive a confirmation linked to your passport. Printing is recommended but not required.

• One-time use per trip: Each visit to Nigeria requires a new Landing Card.

💡 Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert, explains:

"The visa-on-arrival program will be phased out after May 30th, 2025. If you already have pre-approval for this, you can still use it to enter Nigeria until that date. After that, you must have an eVisa."

What you'll need for the Nigeria Landing Card

✔️ Valid Chinese passport

✔️ Flight and travel details

✔️ Nigerian accommodation address

✔️ An approved Nigeria eVisa reference number

❗️Important: You must first apply for the Nigeria eVisa before you can complete your Landing Card.

How to apply for the Nigeria Landing Card (and eVisa) from China

1️⃣ Apply for your Nigeria eVisa via the official government portal or through iVisa for a smoother experience.

2️⃣ Once your eVisa is approved, register your Landing Card through iVisa or the government portal.

3️⃣ Submit your travel details and receive your Landing Card by email. Print a copy just in case.

Use the below tool to calculate your timeline for both the eVisa and Landing Card, and plan your trip accordingly:

iVisa vs Nigeria government site

What’s the difference between the eVisa and Landing Card?

Here's a quick reference to the differences between these documents:

• The Nigeria eVisa is your official travel authorization - mandatory for Chinese citizens.
• The Landing Card is a digital customs form, required in addition to the eVisa, with details about your trip and personal info.

💡 Travel tip from Femke Strietman, iVisa expert:

"Even with an approved eVisa, immigration may deny entry if you haven’t completed the Landing Card. They’re two separate documents, both required!"

What happens when you land in Nigeria?

Even with everything digital, you should prepare for:

• Biometrics: Fingerprint and face scan required at immigration.
• Extra time: Allow 15–20 minutes for border control.

💡 Michael Zervos from Project Kosmos shares:

“They took my fingerprints and photo, and within minutes I was through. Friendly staff, but be ready with your documents."

🕐 Pro tip: Land between 11 AM and 3 PM on a Tuesday or Wednesday to skip the long queues at Lagos Airport.

Nigeria Exit Card – don’t forget

To leave Nigeria, you’ll also need an Exit Card, which:

• Must be submitted online
• Can only be completed within 96 hours before departure
• Is currently only available on the official government site

❗ Government site can be glitchy. Do this registration as early as you can.

Yellow fever vaccination

Chinese citizens arriving from countries with high yellow fever risk must show a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Check official guidance or your airline’s advice.

Need help with your Nigeria eVisa or Landing Card application?

We’re here to guide you with your Nigeria visa and Landing Card application. Chat with us on WhatsApp or reach out via iVisa chat.