The United States Department of State has announced a significant change to its visa policy for Nigerian citizens, limiting most non-immigrant, non-diplomatic visas to a single entry with a validity of three months.
In a statement released yesterday by the U.S. Embassy in Abuja, the new visa rules take immediate effect. However, visas issued before July 8, 2025, will remain valid until their original expiration dates.
The embassy explained that this change is part of a global visa reciprocity review process, which aims to align U.S. visa policies with international standards and ensure the integrity of the U.S. immigration system. The review process is ongoing and subject to adjustments, including changes to visa duration and the number of entries permitted.
According to the embassy, the updated policy is based on globally accepted technical and security benchmarks, which include the issuance of secure travel documents with verified identities, the effective management of visa overstays, and the sharing of relevant security and criminal information with U.S. authorities.
The embassy emphasized that the U.S. is actively collaborating with Nigerian officials to help meet these benchmarks.
“The U.S. Mission is working with the Government of Nigeria to ensure that Nigeria can meet the criteria,” the statement noted.
Despite the new restrictions, the U.S. reaffirmed its strong diplomatic relationship with Nigeria. It acknowledged ongoing efforts by Nigeria’s immigration and security agencies to adopt international best practices.
“The United States values its longstanding relationship with Nigeria and remains committed to strengthening our partnership based on mutual respect, shared security priorities, and economic growth,” the embassy added.
Nigerian travellers were advised to comply strictly with the terms of their visas and ensure their travel documents are accurate and up to date.
The embassy concluded by reiterating its commitment to deepening ties with Nigeria through education, cultural exchanges, and business collaboration, stating: “We look forward to continued cooperation at all levels with the Nigerian public and government officials to ensure safe and lawful travel between the United States and all countries.”
Source:https://punchng.com/us-cuts-nigerians-visa-validity-to-three-months/
Image Credit: Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria
