Visa restrictions for Nigerian travelers just got a major update. How Nigerians can travel to St. Kitts and Nevis without visa is now a reality, following a landmark agreement between Nigeria and St. Kitts and Nevis.
Nigerian passport holders can now travel to St. Kitts and Nevis without a visa, thanks to the new agreement.
The policy, effective from September 26, 2025, allows short-term visits of up to 90 days and was championed through the AfriCaribbean Investment Summit (AACIS), an initiative by Abuja-based Aquarian Consult Limited (ACL), led by Managing Director Aisha Maina.
Maina explained that the federation is now the first country outside ECOWAS to secure such status with Nigeria. Previously, only Cameroon and Chad enjoyed similar arrangements.
“The move is seen as a strategic step to strengthen trade, investment, and cultural exchanges, while reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to South-South cooperation,” Maina stated.
What Travelers Should Know
Under the visa-free policy:
- Nigerians can enter St. Kitts and Nevis for up to 90 days per visit without a visa
- Citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis can also travel to Nigeria without a visa
- The arrangement applies to ordinary, official, and diplomatic passport holders
Officials, however, stress that travelers must still meet entry conditions, including:
- A valid passport
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Completed immigration documentation
Travel Costs and Living Expenses
For Nigerians planning a trip to St. Kitts and Nevis, reports shows the average costs surrounding the travel below:
- Flights: Round-trip tickets from Lagos (LOS) to Basseterre (SKB) cost between $1,175 and $1,852 USD (₦1.8m–₦2.9m), depending on the season and airline.
- Cost of Living: Monthly expenses average EC$3,500–5,000 (₦1.9m–₂.8m) for rent, food, and essentials. While pricier than Lagos, visitors benefit from fresh seafood and scenic beaches.
- Currency: The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$ or XCD), pegged to the U.S. dollar. Current rate: 1 EC$ ≈ ₦549.
Long-Term Stay Options
Nigerians considering more than short visits can explore:
- Residency permits, subject to separate applications
- The country’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, which requires significant financial contributions and legal guidance
These pathways are outside the scope of the visa-free agreement.
Travel Tips for Nigerians
- Keep copies of all travel documents (both digital and physical)
- Inform your bank before departure to avoid blocked cards
- Carry local currency; while USD is widely accepted, the EC$ is the official tender
- Abide by local laws, especially on controlled substances, as penalties are strict
Why this Development Matters
Experts view the agreement as a strategic move to deepen South-South cooperation. The policy is expected to:
- Boost trade and investment flows
- Strengthen tourism exchanges
- Promote cultural diplomacy between Africa’s largest economy and the Caribbean nation
The inaugural AACIS 2025, held in Abuja in March, where St. Kitts and Nevis was the country of focus, served as the springboard for this mobility reform.
According to industry leaders, the visa-free agreement is more than a travel convenience, it represents a growing partnership between Africa and the Caribbean, creating new opportunities for citizens on both sides of the Atlantic.
FAQs on How Nigerians Can Travel to St. Kitts and Nevis Without Visa
Do Nigerians need a visa to visit St. Kitts and Nevis now?
No. As of September 26, 2025, Nigerians holding ordinary, official, or diplomatic passports can travel to St. Kitts and Nevis without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days per visit.
Can citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis travel to Nigeria visa-free?
Yes. The agreement is reciprocal, meaning nationals of St. Kitts and Nevis can also enter Nigeria without a visa under the same terms.
What documents are required for entry without a visa?
Travelers must still present a valid passport, proof of onward or return travel, and complete standard immigration forms on arrival and departure. This is why it’s important to properly know how Nigerians can travel to St. Kitts and Nevis without visa.
How much does it cost to travel from Nigeria to St. Kitts and Nevis?
Round-trip flights from Lagos to Basseterre cost between $1,175 and $1,852 USD (about ₦1.8m–₦2.9m), depending on the airline and travel season.
Can Nigerians stay longer than 90 days or apply for residency?
Yes, but longer stays require applying for a residency permit or exploring the country’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, both of which involve separate legal processes and financial commitments.
