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CERPAC Consultant in Nigeria
Lifehampers helps employers apply for and renew CERPAC, the Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card that lets approved expatriates legally live and work in Nigeria.
How CERPAC Works
CERPAC is issued by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to foreign nationals employed in approved Expatriate Quota positions. Since August 2025, applications are submitted fully online through the NIS portal, with no paper forms. The process has three stages:
Online Application
After the expatriate arrives on the appropriate work visa, the employer submits the CERPAC application and supporting documents through the NIS portal.
Biometrics
The expatriate's fingerprints and photograph are captured at a designated NIS office as part of verification.
Issuance
After verification a digital permit is issued, and the physical card is delivered to the employer's address.
Renew on Time
CERPAC is issued for a fixed period, commonly up to two years, and must be renewed before it expires. It also depends on the underlying quota position staying valid.
How We Help
We prepare and submit applications, coordinate biometric appointments, and track expiry dates so renewals are filed early.
Questions people often ask
Straight answers to the questions we hear most often.
Is CERPAC the same as a work permit?
CERPAC combines a residence permit and an identity card. It confirms an expatriate's legal right to live and work in Nigeria, tied to their employer's approved quota position.
Who applies for CERPAC?
The employer applies on behalf of the expatriate, who must be employed in an approved Expatriate Quota position.
Can I still apply on paper?
No. Since 1 August 2025, CERPAC applications are accepted only through the NIS online portal.
Do I need an Expatriate Quota first?
Yes, for long-term employment. Short assignments may use a Temporary Work Permit instead. See our Expatriate Quota service.
What happens if CERPAC expires?
The expatriate must renew before expiry to keep legal residence. Working on an expired CERPAC exposes both the employee and employer to compliance risk; see avoiding CERPAC renewal delays.
Need CERPAC for Your Team?
Lifehampers Global Consults handles CERPAC applications and renewals alongside Expatriate Quota, CAC registration and other compliance needs.