4 visas that give Nigerian passport holders access to more countries

Over the past two decades, the Nigerian passport has experienced a notable decline in global mobility. According to the Henley Passport Index, Nigeria ranks as one of the 18 least powerful in 2025.. Currently, Nigerian passport holders can access 46 countries visa-free or with visa-on-arrival. However, this still leaves over 180 countries requiring a visa, visa-on-arrival, or e-visa for entry. To enhance travel freedom, obtaining certain strategic visas can significantly strengthen the Nigerian passport.

While a visa does not directly change your passport’s strength, it can make other visa applications smoother and even give you access to countries that would usually require a separate visa. Enhancing the strength of your Nigerian passport can significantly improve your global mobility. By obtaining certain strategic visas, you can access a wider range of countries with greater ease.

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Here are four visas that can improve the strength of your Nigerian passport:

United States Visa
If you have a valid U.S. visa on your Nigerian passport, you are not just gaining access to the U.S., you are also unlocking easier entry into over 20 other countries, including Mexico and several Caribbean nations, which offer visa-free entry or visas on arrival to U.S. visa holders.

Schengen Visa
The Schengen visa allows entry into 27 European countries within the Schengen Area, including major economies like Germany, France, and Italy. Possession of a Schengen visa can also simplify travel to certain non-Schengen countries that permit entry to holders of this visa, thereby broadening your travel options.

United Kingdom Visa
Nigerian passport holders with a valid UK visa and Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) have access to over 10 countries, including Albania, Mexicoand Turkey, which offer visa exemptions or simplified entry processes, making travel more flexible.

Canadian Visa
A valid Canada visa or PR card does not just get you into Canada, it also allows entry to over 10 countries, including British Virgin Island, Costa Rica, and several Caribbean nations, which offer visa exemptions or visas on arrival for Canadian visa holders, making travel more convenient.