U.S. Visa Shake-Up: Nigerians Now Face Shorter, Single-Entry Visas
Aspiring Nigerian travelers to the United States are facing a new reality as the U.S. Department of State has announced a significant shift in its non-immigrant visa policy. Effective immediately, most non-diplomatic U.S. visas issued to Nigerian citizens will now be single-entry with a validity period of just three months.
The announcement, made on the Tuesday by the U.S. Embassy in Abuja, marks a notable departure from previous visa reciprocity arrangements. While existing U.S. non-immigrant visas issued before July 8, 2025, will retain their original status and validity, future applicants will contend with these new, stricter terms.
The U.S. Embassy underscored that visa reciprocity is a dynamic process, subject to continuous review and change. This allows for adjustments to permitted entries and validity durations based on evolving circumstances. Travelers are encouraged to visit travel.state.gov for the most current information on visa reciprocity schedules worldwide.
According to the U.S. Mission, the updated policy is rooted in efforts to safeguard the integrity of U.S. immigration systems, adhering to global technical and security benchmarks. The Embassy stated it is actively collaborating with the Nigerian government to ensure Nigeria meets these crucial criteria.
Key examples of these standard criteria include:
* Secure Travel Documents: Ensuring that countries issue secure travel documents with verified traveler identities.
* Visa Overstay Management: Implementing effective measures to limit overstays by travelers on U.S. visas.
* Information Sharing: Sharing relevant security and criminal record information to protect public safety.
Despite the tightened visa policy, the United States affirmed its longstanding relationship with Nigeria, emphasizing a commitment to expanding partnership based on mutual respect, shared security priorities, and economic opportunity. The U.S. commended ongoing efforts by Nigeria’s immigration and security agencies to align with international best practices and indicated continued engagement with Nigerian officials to address remaining challenges.
Nigerian travelers are urged to strictly adhere to the terms of their visas and ensure all travel documents are authentic, accurate, and up to date. The U.S. reiterated its dedication to fostering people-to-people ties with Nigeria through business, educational, and cultural exchanges, looking forward to continued cooperation to facilitate safe and lawful travel between the two nations.
