Emmanuel OchayiOver the years, the global mobility of Nigerian passport holders has declined. According to the Henley Passport Index, the Nigerian passport ranks among the 18 least powerful in 2025. Currently, it grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to only 46 countries, leaving over 180 countries requiring visas or electronic travel authorisations. However, securing certain strategic visas can improve access to more destinations and simplify the visa application process for other countries.
While a visa does not change the ranking of the Nigerian passport, it can help reduce travel restrictions. Some visas allow Nigerian passport holders to enter multiple countries without additional applications. This article highlights visas that can increase travel flexibility.
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1. U.S. Visa
A valid United States visa can unlock travel opportunities beyond the U.S. itself. Nigerian passport holders with a U.S. visa can enter over 20 other countries with visa exemptions or simplified visa-on-arrival procedures.
For example, Mexico, Costa Rica, and several Caribbean nations allow entry for Nigerian passport holders with a valid U.S. visa. This means that travellers do not need to apply for separate visas when planning trips to these destinations. The U.S. visa also strengthens applications for other countries, as it is considered a strong travel history indicator.
2. Schengen Visa
The Schengen visa is one of the most valuable visas for Nigerian passport holders. It allows entry into 27 European countries, including Germany, France, and Italy. Beyond Europe, several non-Schengen countries recognize this visa and grant entry based on its validity.
For example, Turkey, Georgia, and some Balkan countries allow Nigerian passport holders with a valid Schengen visa to enter without additional applications. This significantly expands travel options, making it easier to explore multiple destinations in one trip.
3. UK Visa
A United Kingdom visa is another strategic travel document for Nigerian passport holders. Having a valid UK visa or a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) can simplify entry into over 10 countries.
For instance, Mexico, Turkey, and Albania allow Nigerian passport holders with a valid UK visa to enter with minimal requirements. The UK visa can also ease visa applications for other European and North American countries, as it demonstrates credible travel history.
4. Canadian Visa
A Canadian visa or permanent residence (PR) card extends travel access beyond Canada. Nigerian passport holders with a valid Canadian visa can enter several countries in the Caribbean and Central America without needing additional visas.
For example, the British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, and some other Caribbean nations grant entry to travellers with Canadian visas. This reduces travel restrictions and provides more flexibility when planning international trips.
Why These Visas Strengthen the Nigerian Passport
Even though the Nigerian passport itself has limited global mobility, holding visas from strong countries can enhance travel opportunities. These visas not only grant access to their respective countries but also serve as a gateway to other destinations.
Having a visa from the U.S., UK, Schengen Area, or Canada can simplify visa applications for other countries. Many embassies view travellers with these visas as lower risk, leading to higher approval chances for other visa applications.
Nigerian passport holders can improve their travel access by securing strategic visas. While the Nigerian passport ranks low in global mobility, having visas from the U.S., UK, Canada, or the Schengen Area can make international travel more convenient. These visas open doors to multiple destinations, reduce visa application stress, and improve the overall travel experience. Nigerian travellers seeking better mobility should consider obtaining these key visas to enhance their global access.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
