You’ve come to the right place if you’re actively seeking employment with Nigeria’s paramilitary agencies and eager to secure a stable government job. This article provides comprehensive information about the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) 2025/2026 recruitment process, including the latest updates on the application status and requirements.

The recruitment exercise is being conducted through the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), and this guide will equip you with everything you need to know about applying successfully.

About the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS)

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) is a paramilitary organisation established in 1963 in Nigeria. It was extracted from the Nigeria Police in August 1958 and initially referred to as the Immigration Department. The NIS operates under the Federal Ministry of Internal Affairs and is now supervised by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB).

The service’s primary responsibilities encompass border security, migration management, and the issuance of travel documents within Nigeria. If you’ve ever considered obtaining an international passport in Nigeria, the NIS is the entity responsible for handling this crucial function.

Functions of the NIS

Here are the main functions of the Nigeria Immigration Service:

• Controls who enters or leaves Nigeria
• Issues travel documents to Nigerians at home and abroad
• Grants residence permits to foreigners living in Nigeria
• Watches and patrols the country’s borders
• Enforces immigration laws and regulations
• Combats transnational crimes like human trafficking and illegal immigration

Organisational Structure of the NIS

The Nigeria Immigration Service has been reorganised into 8 main departments (Directorates) and 7 smaller teams (Units) to better handle its tasks and challenges.

Directorates:

1. Human Resources Management: Handles staff matters, training, and welfare
2. Finance and Accounts: Manages the Service’s finances, budget, and revenue
3. Planning, Research and Statistics: Responsible for planning, research, and data analysis
4. Passport and Other Travel Documents: Issues and manages travel documents
5. Investigation and Compliance: Investigates and ensures compliance with immigration laws
6. Border Management: Manages border control, patrols, and services
7. Migration: Handles regular and irregular migration matters
8. Visa and Residency: Issues visas and residency permits

Units:

• Procurement: Handles purchasing and supply
• Legal: Provides legal services and advice
• Internal Audits: Conducts internal audits and checks
• SERVICOM: Ensures service quality and customer satisfaction
• Internal Security: Handles internal security matters
• Press and Public Relations: Manages media and public relations
• Anti-Corruption and Transparency: Promotes transparency and fights corruption

Each Directorate is headed by a Deputy Comptroller General and is divided into more minor divisions for efficient management.

Is The NIS 2025/2026 Recruitment Application Form Out?

Yes, the Nigeria Immigration Service recruitment application form for 2025/2026 was released, and the portal opened on Monday, July 14, 2025. The application portal closed on August 11, 2025, and the recruitment process has progressed to the screening stage.

Current Status: The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) released the shortlist of candidates on 30th October 2025. Shortlisted candidates are currently undergoing Computer-Based Tests (CBT), with physical screening scheduled from 8th to 12th December 2025.

If you missed this recruitment cycle, candidates interested in working for the NIS should continue to check the official CDCFIB portal and verified media outlets for announcements of future recruitment exercises.

Requirements To Apply For The Nigeria Immigration Service Recruitment Exercise

To be eligible for the Nigeria Immigration Service recruitment, candidates must meet the following general requirements:

Basic Eligibility Requirements:

Nationality: Applicants must be Nigerian citizens by birth or descent and possess a valid means of identification, such as a National ID card, International Passport, Voter’s Card, or Driver’s Licence.

Educational Qualifications: Applicants must possess:

• A minimum of five (5) credits in WASC/GCE/SSCE/NECO, including Mathematics and English Language
• Relevant tertiary qualifications such as BSc, HND, OND, or NCE from a reputable institution in Nigeria

Age Requirements: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and no more than 35 years old.

Height Requirements: Male applicants must be at least 1.7 metres tall, whilst female applicants must be at least 1.64 metres tall.

Chest Measurement: Male applicants must possess a fully expanded chest measurement of not less than 0.87 metres.

Medical and Physical Fitness: Applicants must be certified by a Government Medical Officer to be physically and mentally fit for appointment into the Service. Candidates must not be suffering from any form of mental or physical disability.

Character Requirements: Applicants must be of good character and must not have been found guilty of any criminal offence. Candidates must also be free from any form of financial embarrassment or debt.

NYSC Requirement: Applicants must possess an NYSC Discharge Certificate or Exemption Letter.

Guarantor Form: Every applicant is required to fill out and submit a referee/guarantor form. Two reputable citizens with verifiable addresses will be required to vouch for your character.

Medical Conditions That Disqualify Applicants:

Candidates with the following medical conditions should not apply:

• Sight problems
• Hearing difficulties
• Previous major orthopaedic operation
• Flat foot
• Fracture, stammering, or any other natural disability
• Pregnant women

These requirements apply regardless of the specific position an individual is interested in applying for within the Nigeria Immigration Service.

Available Positions

The NIS 2025/2026 recruitment offers positions across various cadres:

1. Superintendent Cadre (CONPASS 08–09): For degree/HND holders in fields like Law, Engineering, or related disciplines
2. Inspectorate Cadre (CONHESS 06): For NCE/ND holders, including technical or health backgrounds
3. Assistant Cadre (CONPASS 04/03): For SSCE/NECO holders with 4 to 5 credits, or trade-test certificate holders (drivers, artisans, etc.)

These positions are open to both degree and non-degree holders, providing opportunities for qualified Nigerians at different educational levels.

How to Apply For The NIS 2025/2026 Recruitment Exercise

For those who missed the 2025/2026 application cycle, here is the standard application process for future NIS recruitment exercises:

Step-by-Step Application Guide:

1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to the official CDCFIB recruitment portal at https://recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng or the NIS career page at https://immigration.gov.ng
2. Read Instructions Carefully: Carefully review all instructions provided on the portal. Ensure that you understand all the guidelines and requirements before proceeding.
3. Create Your Account: Register a new account using a valid, functional email address and an active phone number. Select your gender and create a secure password.
4. Verify Your Account: A verification link or code will be sent to your email address and/or phone number. Click on the verification link or enter the verification code provided to confirm your registration.
5. Complete Your Application: Once your account is activated, log in and complete your application form. Provide accurate and truthful information as required.
6. Upload Your Profile: Add your profile information, including a passport photograph and your biographical details as contained in your curriculum vitae.
7. Add Your Qualifications: Upload your WASSCE/NECO certificates and other relevant educational qualifications. Ensure all documents are clear and legible.
8. Attach Supporting Documents: Upload all required supporting documents, including:
   • Valid means of identification
   • Educational certificates
   • NYSC certificate or exemption letter
   • Birth certificate or age declaration
   • Guarantor forms
   • Medical fitness certificate
9. Submit Your Application: Review all information for accuracy before submitting your application through the portal.
10. Print Your Application Slip: After successful submission, print your photocard or application slip from the portal for future reference.
11. Monitor Your Application Status: Regularly log in to the application portal to track your application status and check for shortlist announcements.

Important Reminders

The Application is Completely FREE

The entire Nigeria Immigration Service recruitment process is absolutely free of charge. Do not pay anyone for application forms, processing, or guaranteed selection. The CDCFIB has repeatedly warned the public against fraudsters demanding payment for recruitment services.

Beware of Fraudulent Websites

Only use the official CDCFIB recruitment portal at https://recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng. Beware of:

• Individuals or groups promising guaranteed selection for a fee
• Third-party websites offering to “get you shortlisted”
• Requests for payment to access or download application forms
• Fake social media accounts claiming to represent NIS or CDCFIB