A more comprehensive version of the ordinance made public on January 13, 2025 was adopted by the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP), under the presidency of the Transition. This ordinance No. 2025-02 governs the conditions of entry, stay and movement of foreigners in Niger as part of the ongoing reforms.
The text stipulates that all foreigners must present a valid travel document or residence permit to enter Nigerien territory.
After a three months’ period, a residence permit or resident card becomes mandatory. Certain economic activities require specific authorisation, the terms of which will be specified by future decrees.
The ordinance distinguishes between two categories of foreigners: “non-immigrants” (diplomats, agents of foreign organisations and travelers in transit) and “immigrants” (other persons). This classification determines the documents required for entry and stay.
The freedom of movement of foreigners on the territory is guaranteed, except in the case of restrictions linked to backgrounds or behaviours deemed problematic, for reasons of national security and public order.
The text also provides for strengthened administrative mechanisms to manage offenses. The interior minister or, in an emergency, the police authorities may decide to expel a foreigner. However, no expulsion may be carried out to a country where the security of a foreigner would be threatened.
This legal framework is intended to mark a significant step forward in the management of migratory flows in Niger, by strengthening control of the entry and stay of foreigners while protecting national interests. It comes in a context of growing diplomatic tensions between Niamey and several West African and Western capitals.
AC/te/Sf/fss/as/APA