These two documents are issued by the Government of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Interior.
Business Permit is an operational and permanent permit that authorizes joint ventures and wholly foreign companies to conduct their businesses within the country.
Expatriate Quota is consent in writing granted to a Nigerian company to employ a foreigner specifically for a designated job position.
The Expatriate Quota scheme is designed by the Government of Nigeria to prevent the indiscriminate employment of expatriates where there are qualified and suitable Nigerians to fill those positions.
We are eager to support every non-Nigerian who has entered Nigeria legally (STR VISA) and who wishes to reside and/or work in Nigeria to procure all relevant documentation. This involves application for a Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card which is generally referred to as a CERPAC. The CERPAC is valid for two years, is renewable and is in two categories, a Green Card and a Brown card.
Possession of a CERPAC Green Card allows a non-Nigerian to reside in Nigeria and carry out an approved activity as specified in the permit, or to accompany a resident or citizen of Nigeria as a dependant.
Possession of a valid CERPAC Green Card does not exempt the holder from having a valid entry or re-entry visa. Holders of resident status in Nigeria who are proceeding on leave or temporary duty outside Nigeria should apply for re-entry visa before their departure from Nigeria.
Non Nigerians resident in Nigeria or visiting with the intention to remain in Nigeria in excess of 56 days as well as members of the crew of a ship leaving their ship and staying ashore in excess of 28 days are required by law to register and obtain a CERPAC Brown Card.