Higher Scrutiny in Oil and Gas Sector Temporary Work Permit Application Process

The situation

Employers submitting Temporary Work Permit applications must first submit documents to the Nigerian National Content Development Management Board (NCDMB), instead of optionally skipping this step, as the NCDMB is conducting checks to ensure this step was completed.

A closer look

• Required documentation. Applications submitted to the NCDMB must be accompanied by specific documents, including a job description for each position being filled, evidence that the skilled services are specialized and a letter of invitation from the host entity, among others.
• Processing time. The NCDMB step takes an extra two to three weeks in the TWP process, bringing the entire process – which also involves submitting applications to the Nigerian Immigration Service and the relevant Nigerian consular post – to six to eight weeks.
• Validity period. TWP applications that undergo the NCMDB step are only valid for a non-renewable period of three months, as opposed to those that do not, which are renewable past 90 days. 

 

Impact

Employers should be prepared for TWP holders’ applications to be audited by the NCDMB.

Employers found to have failed to complete the NCDMB step may be banned from sponsoring future TWP applications or may face repatriation of TWP holders.

Background

The government has increased scrutiny of the NCDMB step to ensure local employees access to employment opportunities.

Looking ahead

Fragomen expects the Nigerian government to continue to scrutinize TWP applications in the oil and gas sector in order to encourage employers recruit local workers.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].