If you’re planning a trip to Nigeria, one of the first things you might wonder about is the travel requirements, especially regarding health documentation.
Travelling internationally has always involved some paperwork, and with the global changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, entry requirements for many countries have become more detailed. So, do you need a health declaration form to enter Nigeria?
Let’s break it down for you.
What Is a Health Declaration Form?
Photo Source: ncdc.gov.ng
A health declaration form is a document that travellers must fill out before or upon arrival in a country. This form typically gathers information about your recent health status, travel history, and contact information.
It is used by health authorities to monitor and manage the spread of infectious diseases, such as COVID-19.
In Nigeria’s case, the health declaration form became a key requirement during the pandemic to help track and limit the spread of the virus among travellers entering the country.
Current Entry Requirements for Nigeria (as of 2024)
The entry requirements for Nigeria may vary depending on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the current global health situation. Here’s what you need to know about the health declaration form and other related requirements:
Health Declaration Form:
Nigeria requires all international travellers to complete a health declaration form before arrival. The form is typically submitted online.
This form includes details about your health status, vaccination history, and travel history within the last 14 days.
COVID-19 Vaccination Status:
Nigeria mandates proof of COVID-19 vaccination for all travellers aged 18 and above. If you’re vaccinated, make sure to carry your vaccination certificate.
Unvaccinated travellers may face additional restrictions, such as mandatory testing or quarantine.
PCR Testing:
Fully vaccinated travellers are generally exempt from pre-departure PCR tests.
Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers may need to present a negative PCR test result taken within 48 hours before departure.
Yellow Fever Vaccination:
Nigeria is a Yellow Fever-endemic country, so proof of vaccination is mandatory for all travellers. You must present your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (the Yellow Card) upon arrival.
Travel Insurance:
While not mandatory, it’s strongly advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including COVID-19-related costs.
Visa and Passport Requirements:
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How to Fill Out the Nigerian Health Declaration Form
Filling out the health declaration form is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:
Access the Form Online:
Visit the Nigerian Centre For Disease Control Portal.
Create an Account:
Register on the portal using your email address and a secure password. This account will allow you to save your progress and access other travel-related services.
Fill in Your Personal Information:
Enter your full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport number.
Provide your flight details, including the airline name and flight number.
Health and Travel History:
Answer questions about your recent health status, including any symptoms of illness.
Indicate if you’ve been in contact with anyone diagnosed with COVID-19 or another contagious disease in the last 14 days.
List the countries you’ve visited recently.
Upload Supporting Documents:
Upload a copy of your COVID-19 vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test result (if required).
Pay Any Applicable Fees:
If you need on-arrival COVID-19 testing, you may be required to prepay for the test via the portal.
Submit the Form:
Once completed, submit the form and print a copy of the confirmation page. You will need to present this at the airport.
What Happens Upon Arrival in Nigeria?
When you arrive in Nigeria, here’s what to expect:
Health Screening:
Nigerian health officials will conduct temperature checks and review your health declaration form.
If you exhibit symptoms of illness, you may undergo additional screening or testing.
Documentation Verification:
Immigration officials will verify your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate and other required documents.
Keep your printed health declaration form confirmation handy.
COVID-19 Testing:
If you’re unvaccinated, you may be required to take a COVID-19 test upon arrival or within a specified period (usually 7 days).
Ensure you follow all instructions given by the health officials.
Quarantine (if applicable):
Travellers who test positive for COVID-19 may need to quarantine at their own expense at a government-approved facility or hotel.
Why Is the Health Declaration Form Important?
The health declaration form serves several purposes, including:
- Public Health Monitoring: Helps Nigerian health authorities track and contain the spread of infectious diseases.
- Efficient Contact Tracing: The form provides essential contact details to notify travellers if they are exposed to an infectious disease.
- Streamlined Entry Process: Pre-arrival submission of the form reduces delays at the airport.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Entry into Nigeria
Plan Ahead:
Complete the health declaration form 48 hours before your flight to avoid last-minute issues.
Double-Check Requirements:
Travel regulations can change quickly. Check the latest updates on the Nigerian International Travel Portal.
Keep Digital and Physical Copies:
Save digital copies of your documents on your phone and carry printed copies as a backup.
Stay Informed About Quarantine Rules:
If quarantine is required, familiarise yourself with the designated facilities and associated costs.
Pack Essentials:
Carry a mask, hand sanitiser, and disinfectant wipes for added safety during your journey.
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Common Questions About Nigeria’s Health Declaration Form
Do children need to complete the health declaration form?
Yes, the form must be completed for all travellers, including children. Parents or guardians can fill out the form on behalf of minors.
What happens if I need to fill out the Nigerian health declaration form?
You may face delays at the airport and, in some cases, be denied entry. Therefore, it’s best to complete the form in advance.
Is there a fee for the health declaration form?
The form is free, but you may need to pay for any required COVID-19 tests or additional services.
How long does it take to process a health declaration form in Nigeria?
Processing is usually instant once you’ve submitted all required information and documents.