UAE Visa Ban 2026: List of Affected Countries & Nigeria’s Status Explained

Important Clarifications: What the Ban Does *Not* Do

There are several key points that people often misunderstand. These are what the ban does not do:

• It is not a travel ban. Citizens of the listed countries who already have valid UAE visas can continue to live, work, or travel in the UAE under their existing permissions. 
• The ban only applies to new visa or work permit applications. Renewal of existing permits should not be affected. 
• Temporary or emergency situations may lead to exceptions or special processes, but these are not broadly publicised yet. Always check official UAE immigration or embassy sources.

Is the Nigerian Work Permit Open in UAE?

Many Nigerians are understandably concerned about whether they can still obtain UAE work permits. Based on recent reporting:

• Nigeria is not officially listed among the nine countries subject to the 2026 visa ban.
• However, there have been stricter entry conditions</strong imposed on Nigerians. For example, recent directives indicate that Nigerians aged 18-45 applying for tourist visas *unaccompanied* may be ineligible under new rules. Also, transit visas have been reportedly banned for Nigerians. 
• The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified at times that work permits are still being issued/renewed for Nigerians, though there is some confusion in reports. There is no verified announcement that new Nigerian work permit applications are totally banned. 
• Our understanding is that certain types of visas or permits (especially in free zones or special economic zones) may have more lenient or different processing rules. 

In summary: yes, Nigerian work permits are still generally open, but with **more demanding requirements** and restrictions in some cases. It’s not a complete ban. Always verify via UAE official immigration portals, or your employer/visa sponsor.

Is Nigeria Visa Banned in the UAE?

Here’s what we know about visa issuance for Nigerians:

• In October 2022, the UAE implemented a diplomatic dispute and visa restrictions impacting citizens of about 20 African countries, Nigeria included. 
• However, in **March 2024**, there were reports that the UAE had *lifted* visa restrictions for Nigerians. Official sources from both the Nigerian government and UAE clarified and/or refuted some of those claims. Some confusion and conflicting reports exist.
• As of 2025, Nigeria is **not part** of the 2026 visa ban’s nine countries. Thus, there is no official visa ban for Nigerians under the new policy. 
• Nonetheless, Nigerians face stricter visa requirements: e.g., age limits, financial documentation, transit visa restrictions in certain cases. These are not blanket bans, but additional hurdles. 

What Nigerians Should Do: Tips & Advice

If you are a Nigerian planning to travel to or work in the UAE, here are best practices to follow:

1. Check Official Sources:** UAE immigration authority websites, UAE embassy communications in Nigeria, and Nigerian MFA statements.
2. Ensure Complete Documentation:** Be ready to provide bank statements, proof of accommodation, and travel history. Applicants in certain age groups may need to show a minimum bank balance. 
3. Work Permits via Sponsor or Company:** If employment is through a free zone or multinational sponsor, sometimes different rules apply.
4. Watch for Updates:** The policy is reportedly in flux. If you are mid-application, keep in touch with your visa agent or legal adviser.
5. Consider Alternatives:** If restrictions make certain visa types hard to obtain, look at alternate pathways (different visa categories, business visas, or working through firms with free-zone operations).

 (FAQ)

Q: Can Nigerians still apply for work permits in the UAE?

A: Yes. Work permits are generally still open, but requirements have become stricter. New bans do not include Nigeria among the countries prohibited under the 2026 visa ban. 27

Q: Will a Nigerian passport holder be denied a UAE visa under the new ban?

A: Not under the 2026 visa ban specifically—Nigeria is not one of the nine listed countries. However, there are additional conditions (age, bank statement, sponsorship) that can lead to rejections if not met. 

Q: Will existing UAE visas for nationals of affected countries remain valid?

A: Yes. As per reports, holders of valid UAE visas from the banned countries can generally continue using them. The suspension applies to *new visa or work permit applications* only.

Q: When will the UAE review or lift the ban?

A: No official timeline has been published. The ban is in effect until further notice. It is expected to be reviewed based on compliance with documentation, diplomatic negotiations, or other criteria set by the UAE government.