US Slashes Visa Validity for Nigerians, Tightens Entry Rules
The United States government has announced sweeping changes to its visa policy for Nigeria, reducing most non-immigrant visas to single-entry with a three-month validity, effective immediately.
This was made known in a statement released by the U.S. Embassy in Abuja on Tuesday and shared with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Previously, Nigerian applicants often received two-year non-immigrant visas, though with an entry validity of three months. The revised policy marks a significant shift in U.S. visa reciprocity terms.
“Effective immediately, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to citizens of Nigeria will be single-entry visas with a three-month validity period,” the embassy stated.
The decision affects only new visas issued on or after July 8, 2025. Those granted before that date will retain their existing validity and entry terms.
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Why the Change?
According to the U.S. government, the adjustment aligns with its reciprocal visa policy, which is subject to regular review based on global security and immigration standards.
The embassy emphasised that the move is part of an ongoing effort to safeguard the integrity of its immigration system, especially in areas like:
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✅ Secure travel documents – requiring biometric and identity-verifiable passports
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🚫 Visa overstay management – tackling frequent visa violations
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🔄 Information sharing – for cross-border security and law enforcement collaboration
🇺🇸🤝🇳🇬 Still Committed to U.S.–Nigeria Relations
Despite the tighter restrictions, the embassy praised Nigeria’s recent efforts to improve immigration standards and security practices.
“We commend the ongoing efforts by the Government of Nigeria’s immigration and security agencies to meet standards of international best practices,” it said.
The statement stressed that the U.S. remains committed to cooperation and people-to-people ties, including in areas of business, education, and culture.
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For Nigerian Travellers
The U.S. Mission encouraged Nigerians to:
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Comply strictly with visa terms
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Avoid overstays and ensure documents are valid and verifiable
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Check travel.state.gov for up-to-date visa policies by country
“We look forward to continued cooperation with the Nigerian government and public to ensure safe and lawful travel,” the statement concluded.
What’s Next?
With this policy shift, travel to the U.S. may become more cumbersome for Nigerians, especially frequent fliers. Analysts say it could also strain bilateral mobility if not revised in future negotiations.
Stay with Wellnaija for ongoing coverage on immigration, diaspora affairs, and global policy updates that affect Nigerians at home and abroad.