The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) is one of the most sought-after uniformed agencies in the country, responsible for border management, issuance of travel documents, and facilitating migration.
This guide provides detailed information on the ranks, salaries, job requirements, and how to join the NIS, ensuring that anyone interested has all the information they need.
Introduction to the Nigeria Immigration Service
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) plays a crucial role in national security and economic growth. Established in 1963, the NIS ensures effective border security, regulates migrant entries, and issues passports and visas.
It also collaborates with international organizations to manage legal and illegal migration.For job seekers in Nigeria, the NIS offers career opportunities with various entry points.
In this blog, we’ll explore the different ranks in the service, their salaries, recruitment processes, and what it takes to become an officer in the Nigeria Immigration Service.
Rank Structure of the Nigeria Immigration Service
The NIS follows a paramilitary rank structure, with officers grouped into Commissioned Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers. Below are the major ranks in the Nigeria Immigration Service:
Commissioned Officers Ranks
These officers are higher in authority and typically possess tertiary education qualifications.
- Comptroller-General (CG) of Immigration
- Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG)
- Comptroller of Immigration Service (CIS)
- Deputy Comptroller of Immigration (DCI)
- Assistant Comptroller of Immigration (ACI)
- Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG)
Non-Commissioned Officers Ranks
These officers handle on-ground operations and report to commissioned officers.
- Chief Superintendent of Immigration (CSI)
- Superintendent of Immigration (SI)
- Deputy Superintendent of Immigration (DSI)
- Assistant Superintendent of Immigration I (ASI I)
- Assistant Superintendent of Immigration II (ASI II)
- Inspector of Immigration
- Assistant Inspector of Immigration
- Immigration Assistant I, II, and III
Salary Structure of Nigerian Immigration Officers in 2025
The salaries in the NIS are based on the Consolidated Paramilitary Salary Structure (CONPASS), which ensures competitive pay for officers in federal paramilitary services. Below is an overview of the salary ranges based on ranks:
Commissioned Officers Salaries
- Comptroller-General of Immigration: ₦3,500,000 – ₦4,000,000 annually
- Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG): ₦3,000,000 – ₦3,800,000 annually
- Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG): ₦2,700,000 – ₦3,500,000 annually
- Comptroller of Immigration (CIS): ₦2,500,000 – ₦3,000,000 annually
Non-Commissioned Officers Salaries
- Chief Superintendent of Immigration (CSI): ₦1,800,000 – ₦2,300,000 annually
- Superintendent of Immigration (SI): ₦1,500,000 – ₦2,000,000 annually
- Deputy Superintendent of Immigration (DSI): ₦1,200,000 – ₦1,800,000 annually
- Assistant Superintendent I (ASI I): ₦1,000,000 – ₦1,500,000 annually
- Immigration Assistant III: ₦400,000 – ₦600,000 annually
Note: These figures include allowances like housing, transportation, and uniform upkeep. However, bonuses and overtime may further enhance take-home pay.
Editors pick
- How to Become a Virtual Assistant in Nigeria: Your Complete Guide to Starting a Successful Career
- Advancing from a Contract Job to Full-Time in Nigeria
- How Much Are They Paying Project Management Jobs in Nigeria?
- Easy Businesses to Start in Nigeria: Your Guide to Success
- Benefits of Being a Federal Civil Servant in Nigeria
Who Can Work with the Nigeria Immigration Service?
The NIS offers opportunities to a range of applicants, including those with university degrees, Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), diplomas, or secondary school certificates. Some of the key criteria to join the NIS include:
- Nationality: Must be a Nigerian citizen by birth.
- Age Requirement: 18 to 30 years (depending on the role).
- Physical Fitness: Applicants must pass a medical fitness test and have no criminal records.
- Educational Qualification: Ranges from WAEC/NECO certificates to Bachelor’s degrees, depending on the role.
- Height Requirement: Men – 1.65m, Women – 1.60m.
Current Job Openings and Internship Programs
The Nigeria Immigration Service recruits officers periodically, with openings for positions such as Immigration Assistants, Inspectors, and Superintendents.
In (2025), the NIS also rolled out internship programs aimed at students and recent graduates looking to gain experience in border management and administrative duties.
Current Openings (2025)
- Assistant Inspector of Immigration – Requires ND or NCE.
- Superintendent of Immigration – Requires a Bachelor’s degree.
- Immigration Assistant III – Requires SSCE, WAEC, or NECO.
Internship Programs
The NIS offers 3-6 month internship programs in both administrative and field roles. These programs are ideal for students in related fields such as International Relations, Law, or Public Administration.
How to Apply for a Job in the Nigeria Immigration Service
- Visit the NIS Official Portal: Go to immigration.gov.ng for recruitment updates.
- Create a Profile: Register with a valid email address and fill in your details.
- Upload Necessary Documents: Provide copies of your certificates, passport photos, and identification documents.
- Submit the Application: Complete the online form and submit.
- Prepare for Screening: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a computer-based test (CBT) and physical screening.
FAQs About Nigerian Immigration Service Jobs
1. When is the next recruitment for NIS?
Recruitment usually takes place once a year, but interested applicants are advised to monitor the official NIS portal for announcements.
2. What is the minimum qualification to join the NIS?
The minimum qualification for entry-level positions is an SSCE/NECO certificate. For higher ranks, a university degree or diploma is required.
3. Is there an age limit for NIS recruitment?
Yes, applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old. However, exceptions may be made for experienced professionals or ex-servicemen.
4. Do NIS officers receive housing allowances?
Yes, officers receive allowances for housing, transportation, and uniform upkeep as part of their salary package.
5. How long is the training for new recruits?
The training period varies from 3 to 6 months, depending on the rank and responsibilities. Training includes paramilitary drills, administrative tasks, and immigration policies.
Conclusion
A career in the Nigeria Immigration Service offers job security, competitive pay, and the opportunity to serve the nation.
With ranks ranging from entry-level assistants to high-level superintendents and comptrollers, the NIS provides clear career paths and professional growth opportunities.
Additionally, the recruitment process is open to all Nigerians who meet the requirements, making it accessible to both graduates and non-graduates.
If you’re passionate about public service and enjoy working in a structured environment, the NIS might be the ideal place for you.
Stay updated with current job openings and apply through the official portal to kickstart your career.
By following the recruitment process carefully and preparing adequately for screening, you can position yourself to join the ranks of the Nigeria Immigration Service in 2025.