For many Nigerians, visa fees remain a major hurdle when planning international travel. The added cost of securing a visa, alongside flight and accommodation expenses, often makes trips abroad feel unattainable.

Fortunately, several Asian countries offer affordable visa options, making it possible to explore new destinations without breaking the bank.

Here are six Asian countries where visa fees cost less than N100,000:

1. Singapore

Applications are subject to a non-refundable processing fee of $30 (N45,000), payable online using Visa or MasterCard credit/debit cards. Required documents include a valid Nigerian passport with at least six months’ validity and two blank pages, a completed and signed visa application form, and recent passport-sized photographs meeting Singapore’s photo requirements. Applicants must also provide a detailed travel itinerary, including flight reservations and accommodation bookings, along with proof of sufficient financial means to cover their stay. Additional documents may be required depending on the visa type. The processing time typically takes three working days, excluding the day of submission, although some applications may take longer.

2. Japan

As of April 2024, the visa fee for Japan was set at N12,500. Visa applications are strictly by appointment only and must be submitted in person at the Embassy of Japan in Abuja. Appointments must be booked at least 15 working days before the intended departure date, while applications must be submitted no later than 10 working days before departure. Required documents include a valid passport, completed visa application form, recent passport-sized photograph, flight booking, hotel reservation, and proof of financial capability such as a bank statement. Parents or guardians may schedule appointments for minor applicants, but all applications must be submitted in person by the applicant.

3. Sri Lanka

Nigerian passport holders are required to obtain a regular visa before travelling to Sri Lanka. The application process requires a passport photograph, a valid international passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the travel period, proof of financial means such as a bank statement, and a detailed travel itinerary. The double entry tourist visa valid for 30 days costs $50 (N75,000), with all fees being non-refundable and non-transferable.

4. Vietnam

Nigerian passport holders seeking to travel to Vietnam must meet specific entry requirements, including a passport valid for at least six months from the intended arrival date and containing at least two blank pages. Visa fees for single entry and exit are set at $25 (N37,500), while the same fee applies to children under 14 years, regardless of the visa’s validity period. Travellers are advised to ensure their documents are in order before submitting their application.

5. Thailand

Nigerian passport holders planning to visit Thailand can apply for a single-entry tourist e-visa, which costs N65,000. Applicants must provide key documents, including a passport valid for at least six months with at least two blank pages, a completed visa application form, a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds, a return travel ticket, and evidence of accommodation in Thailand, such as a hotel reservation or a host’s address. Additionally, applicants must submit an original police clearance certificate and a copy of a drug clearance certificate. A travel booking confirmation, detailing return flight information with the applicant’s name, departure and return dates, and all flights en route to Thailand, is also required. It is recommended to apply for a visa 4-6 weeks before the intended travel date, but applications should not be submitted more than three months in advance. All visa fees are non-refundable, regardless of the application outcome.

6. South Korea

The South Korean single-entry visa costs N60,000 for stays of up to 90 days and N90,000 for visits exceeding this duration. Prospective applicants are required to submit a passport valid for at least six months, a completed visa application form, and a recent passport-sized photograph. Evidence of financial capability, including a personal bank statement, credit card statements, or vehicle registration documents, must be provided. Additionally, applicants must present a confirmed flight booking, hotel reservation, and a photocopy of a National ID card, driver’s licence, or voter’s card issued within the last five years. The processing period typically takes between 10 to 15 business days (2–3 weeks), with the fee deemed non-refundable, irrespective of the application’s outcome. (The Nation)