In a game-changing development for Nigerian travellers, a valid Schengen visa now opens doors to 27 European countries, offering a more seamless, cost-effective way to explore the continent.
This new opportunity comes as Romania and Bulgaria officially join the Schengen Area as full members as of January 1, 2025, extending the benefits of Schengen travel to even more destinations.
The Schengen visa, which allows holders to travel freely across the member countries without internal border checks, is now an essential tool for Nigerians who wish to explore Europe.
With a single visa, travellers can visit countries like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland, as well as 22 other Schengen nations, for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
“This is a huge win for Nigerian travellers,” said travel expert Alex Olamide. “With one visa, you can move freely between 27 countries, whether you’re going for tourism, business, education, or to visit family.
It significantly reduces the cost and hassle of applying for multiple visas for each country you wish to visit.”
Until now, Nigerians had to apply for separate visas for each country they planned to visit in Europe, but the Schengen visa unifies this process, creating a more efficient and streamlined experience.
Notably, Romania and Bulgaria’s membership in the Schengen Area has added new options for Nigerian travellers, allowing access to these countries without additional documentation or visa applications.
Despite this expanded access, there are still countries outside of the Schengen Area that require separate visas.
The United Kingdom, Ireland, and Cyprus are notable examples of countries that are not part of the Schengen Area.
Travellers planning to visit these locations will need to apply for a separate visa, even if they already hold a Schengen visa for the rest of Europe.
The full list of the 27 Schengen countries Nigerians can now visit with one visa includes:
1. Austria
2. Belgium
3. Croatia
4. Czech Republic
5. Denmark
6. Estonia
7. Finland
8. France
9. Germany
10. Greece
11. Hungary
12. Iceland
13. Italy
14. Latvia
15. Liechtenstein
16. Lithuania
17. Luxembourg
18. Malta
19. Netherlands
20. Norway
21. Poland
22. Portugal
23. Slovakia
24. Slovenia
25. Spain
26. Sweden
27. Switzerland
“The ability to visit countries like France, Germany, and Italy with just one visa makes travel much easier for Nigerians. It’s an exciting time for tourism, business, and education exchange between Nigeria and Europe,” Olamide added.
This change also has significant implications for Nigerian businesses and students. Entrepreneurs seeking to expand into European markets or students hoping to pursue higher education in the Schengen Area will find it easier to move around without the restrictions of multiple visa applications.
While the Schengen visa facilitates easy travel within the 27 member countries, it’s important to note that the Schengen visa does not grant the right to live or work in any of the countries. For long-term stays, Nigerians must still apply for appropriate visas based on their purpose of stay.
For those planning to visit, the Schengen visa allows multiple entries, meaning you can leave and re-enter the Schengen Area within the 90-day limit. However, travellers must ensure they comply with all visa regulations, as overstaying could lead to penalties or future visa rejections.
This development is expected to increase tourism and business exchanges between Nigeria and Europe, providing Nigerians with more freedom to explore new opportunities across the continent.
