Digital Nomads in Nigeria (2025): Visas, Coworking & Policy Gaps

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The world is moving fast, and work no longer fits inside an office. A survey by Statista shows that the number of digital nomads worldwide rose from about 4.8 million in 2018 to over 35 million in 2023. 

Every day, people pack their laptops, grab a passport, and chase a life of freedom. They are digital nomads. And now, Nigeria is being included on the map of digital nomad destinations.

Digital nomads in Nigeria are not just working. They are living in cities alive with music, food, and culture.

It is more than Wi-Fi and work. It is about finding a rhythm that blends hustle with home. Nigeria offers that rhythm. It is raw. It is real. It is rising.

 

Who Are Digital Nomads?

A digital nomad is someone who works online while moving from place to place. They don’t need an office. Their job is in their laptop, and their office is wherever they find good internet and a safe spot to sit.

Digital nomads in Nigeria are no different. Some are writers, building blogs and creating content for global clients. Others are software developers, building apps for companies worldwide. 

Many are virtual assistants, designers, consultants, or even online teachers. What ties them together is not the type of work but the freedom to choose where and how they live.

This lifestyle is growing because remote jobs are becoming increasingly common. Nigeria is gradually joining this wave, with more young people learning skills online and offering them to global clients.

Being a digital nomad is not just about work. It is about choice. And in Nigeria, that choice is becoming real for many.

Why Nigeria Is Attracting Digital Nomads

Nigeria may not be the first country people think of when it comes to remote work, but that is quickly changing. 

Here’s why digital nomads in Nigeria are finding a place they can call home.

1. Bold Cities with Bright Possibilities

Lagos is the heart of Africa’s startup scene. It generates almost 30–35% of Nigeria’s GDP and is home to tech unicorns like Flutterwave and Andela. 

Even Google and Microsoft run operations here. No wonder many call it “Africa’s Silicon Valley.”

2. Affordable Living That Doesn’t Shortchange Life

The cost of living is one of Nigeria’s biggest draws. In Lagos, a solo digital nomad can live on about $749 per month, with rent starting around $238. Food, transport, and coffee are also much cheaper compared to Nairobi or Accra.

Other estimates show accommodation at $300–$800, food at $200–$400, transport at $100–$200, and internet at $30–$50 monthly.

3. Strong Digital Infrastructure

Remote work needs good internet. Nigeria’s leading providers, MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile, now cover most urban areas with 4G LTE, and 5G is rolling out in Lagos and Abuja.

This means video calls, online teaching, and cloud work are much smoother than before. 

4. A Growing Network of Coworking Spaces

Coworking spaces are springing up across major cities. Spots like CcHUB, Workstation, Ventures Platform, and Impact Hub Lagos give nomads reliable Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and a sense of community. 

5. Supportive Growth from Policy and Infrastructure

The remote work wave that began during COVID-19 is still shaping Nigeria. Both the government and private sector are investing in digital literacy, broadband expansion, and flexible workspaces. 

The design of projects like Itana, a new digital city in Lagos, caters to nomads and remote-first businesses.

Cost of Living for Digital Nomads in Nigeria

Thinking of moving your desk to Nigeria? Your monthly budget can vary widely depending on the city and your comfort level. Let’s break it down clearly.

Accommodation

• Lagos: A one-bedroom in central areas like Lekki ranges between ₦200,000 and ₦400,000/month (approx. $500–$1,000).
• Abuja: Furnished apartments in neighbourhoods like Wuse or Maitama go for around $400–$600/month.
• Ibadan & Calabar: Much more budget-friendly—around ₦200,000–₦600,000/year (that’s $480–$1,400/year).
• Port Harcourt: You’ll find furnished places in safe areas for about $200–$300/month.

Utilities, Internet & Coworking

• Utilities (electricity, water, internet) typically cost ₦15,000 and ₦20,000/month ($3 ($36–$48)
• Home broadband plans start around ₦10,000/month ($25)
• Flexible coworking memberships are available from ₦20,000–₦50,000/month ($50–$125).

Food & Groceries

• Groceries can run ₦30,000–₦80,000/month (~$20–$54) depending on your shopping habits.
   
• Meals at local spots cost around ₦4,000–₦15,000 (~$2.60–$10) each.
• For context, the Jollof Index shows a steep food price hike: a pot of Jollof rice rose to ₦27,528 (~$40) by mid-2025, a whopping 153% increase compared to March 2023 

Transportation

• Public transit (BRT in Lagos): just ₦100–₦500 per trip (~$0.25–$0.50).
• Rideshare apps (Uber/Bolt): around ₦1,000–₦5,000 per ride (~$2.50–$7.50).
• Weekly groceries in Abuja: around $35 per week (~$140/month).

READ MORE

• Nigeria’s Best Cities for Young Remote Workers
• Best Hotels in Abuja for Remote Work | Fast Wi-Fi & Quiet Workspaces 2025
• Best Cafés & Co-Working Spaces for Digital Nomads in Port Harcourt (2025 Guide)
• How Gen Z Enjoys Abuja on a Budget in 2025

 

Visas for Digital Nomads in Nigeria

There are no visas for digital nomads in Nigeria yet. Nigeria’s official visa list has tourism, business, TWP, STR/employment, and more. A specific “digital nomad” class is not listed. Use the routes below.

Fast approvals are improving. Nigeria announced an automated short-stay e-visa system targeting 24–48 hour approvals. Rollout began in 2025.

Visa Options Available

• Short Visit e-Visa (Tourism, F5A): The tourism visa is suitable for short-term trips and remote work that does not involve Nigerian clients or a local employer. No employment allowed. Typical asks: passport, return ticket, hotel/host, funds. Apply online.
• Business Visa (F4A/F4B): For meetings, scouting co-working spaces, partnerships, or events. No paid work in Nigeria. Single-entry (F4A) or multiple-entry (F4B) options exist under the e-visa menu. Requirements include an invitation letter and funds.
• Visa on Arrival (pre-approval): Available for eligible travellers after online pre-approval. Apply through the official portal before you fly. Bring the approval letter.
• Temporary Work Permit – TWP (R10/R11): For a short, paid project work with a Nigerian company. A Visa Authority Letter from the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) is required. 30-day single-entry stay for R10; a 6-month option exists (R11).
• The STR/Employment route (R2A), combined with CERPAC, is intended for legitimate job opportunities in Nigeria. First, enter the STR, and then obtain a residence/work card (CERPAC), which is usually valid for up to two years and can be renewed. Needs an employer with a quota.
• ECOWAS citizens. ECOWAS passport holders are visa-exempt for visits to Nigeria. Nigerian missions confirm this policy. You can apply by visiting their official website, Immigration.gov.ng. 

Paperwork you’ll likely need

• Tourism (F5A): Passport (6+ months), photo, return ticket, hotel/host address, bank statement; minors need birth certificate and consent.
• Business (F4A/F4B): Invitation letter from host, proof of funds, return ticket, and standard ID documents.
• TWP (R10): NIS Visa Authority Letter, passport, return ticket; the host company applies first, then you submit.
• Employment (R2A/STR): Employment offer, employer’s expatriate quota approval, and mission-level filing; after arrival, regularise and get CERPAC.

Overstays and Amnesty

• Penalties: Nigeria announced tighter enforcement of overstay rules in 2025. Missions warn travellers to keep their status current.
• Grace option (2025 only): NIS launched an overstay/irregular-status amnesty through September 30, 2025, to let visitors regularise without penalties. 

Practical Picks for Digital Nomads in Nigeria

• For scouting trips (30 days): Use the Tourism e-Visa (F5A). Book a return ticket and lodging. Keep client work offshore, not with Nigerian entities.
• For meetings and deals: Use Business e-Visa (F4A/F4B): no local payroll or hands-on service delivery.
• For paid projects in-country: Use TWP. Let the local company get pre-approval first.
• For full employment: Go STR → CERPAC via R2A. Please allocate a few weeks for the employer paperwork.

 

Conclusion

The rise of digital nomads in Nigeria shows how fast the world of work is changing. From Lagos to Abuja, young people are building remote careers while enjoying freedom and flexibility. 

With affordable living expenses, a growing tech space, and a vibrant culture, Nigeria is becoming part of the global nomad map.

 

Showcase Nigeria Through Your Lens – Join Our Open Call for Creators

Are you a photographer, videographer, or content creator passionate about capturing Nigeria’s beauty, from fashion runways and cultural festivals to tourist landmarks and local events? Our Open Call for Content Creators in Nigeria is your opportunity to get featured, collaborate, and bring authentic Nigerian stories to life. Whether you’re into travel, lifestyle, or visual storytelling, we want to see Nigeria through your eyes.

 Explore more stories on tourism in Nigeria – from cultural gems to hidden travel destinations.

 

FAQs About Digital Nomads In Nigeria

1. Can Foreigners Work as Digital Nomads in Nigeria?

Yes. Foreigners can live and work online in Nigeria, but they must enter with a valid visa and follow local immigration rules.

2. Is Nigeria Affordable for Digital Nomads?

Nigeria can be affordable compared to many countries. Rent, food, and transport cost less, especially outside big cities like Lagos.

3. Is Nigeria Safe for Digital Nomads?

Safety depends on location. Some areas are secure and lively, while others may have risks. Staying informed and choosing safe housing is essential.