Expert Info

Posted by
on 25 Feb 2014
Can anyone tell me whether one can work in Lagos/Nigeria as a Freelancer in any field? If yes, then under which visa category it is allowed and what's the procedure for obtaining this type of visa? Does one require a local sponsor for even this type of occupation? What will the level of earning need to be to break even in Lagos?
Anonymous (not verified) on 5 Mar 2014 - 08:40
Hi BRDC,

To become a freelancer in Nigeria, you'll need to apply for a business visa and for this you'll need a Nigerian sponser. You can read more about the procedure on the Visas for Nigeria page.

The cost of living in Lagos is very high. The city was 39 out of 214 in the 2012 Mercer Cost of Living Survey. Accommodation is particulary expensive.

For a full breakdown of costs you should read the Expat Arrivals Cost of Living in Nigeria page. 

Good luck and let me know if you have more questions.

Shantalie
Anonymous (not verified) on 5 Mar 2014 - 09:29
@Shantalie... Thank you so much for the information. Is getting a local sponsor easy? Can an individual citizen become a sponsor or does it have to be a registered commercial entity? Would an income of less than USD1000 per month be sufficient in your opinion to meet the needs? Thanks in advance.
Anonymous (not verified) on 6 Mar 2014 - 07:24
Hi BDRC,

According to the Nigerian High Commission in London's website you sponsor can be a person or organisation. However, I would just call the relavent embassy in your home country to confirm this. 

I am unable to find any document that states exactly the amount of money needed to apply for business visa for Nigeria - official documents just says proof of funds. So again, I think it would be best to talk to an official at the embassy for advice.

Good luck

Shantalie
Anonymous (not verified) on 6 Mar 2014 - 07:59
@Shantalie.. thanks once again. USD 1000 pm referred to the earning level to get by in Lagos. Any idea whether it would be sufficient (bare minimum)? Answers are not easily forthcoming from the relevant authorities, got no friends in Lagos who could help out on this, hence the route of a forum such as this one... Cheers!
Anonymous (not verified) on 18 Mar 2015 - 01:02
Hello BRDC, Well if you can still read me, Nigeria is one of the best country where you can mke. Good turn over if you invest wisely, even now tht the exchnge rate is on. High side...you can get a normal visiting visa and as time grows you can get to know more nd even register your own company nd you can do whtsoever you wnt to as long as CAC accepted the registrtion of your company