The United States has announced a significant revision to its visa policy for Nigerians, reducing the validity and entry privileges for most non-immigrant, non-diplomatic visa categories.
In a statement released on Tuesday, July 8, the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria confirmed that the new policy limits most affected visas to single entry with a three-month validity. The change takes immediate effect; however, visas issued before July 8 will remain valid under the original terms.
According to the embassy, the adjustment is part of the U.S. government’s global visa reciprocity policy, which seeks to align U.S. visa terms with how other countries treat American citizens. The statement noted that visa rules are periodically reviewed and may continue to change based on compliance with U.S. reciprocity standards.
To improve its standing, Nigeria must meet several benchmarks, including:
-
Issuing secure travel documents with verifiable identity features,
-
Effectively managing visa overstays,
-
And sharing security and criminal history information with U.S. authorities.
“The U.S. Mission is working closely with the Government of Nigeria to ensure it meets the required criteria,” the embassy said. Despite the more restrictive policy, it reiterated the U.S.’s commitment to maintaining strong bilateral relations with Nigeria.
Additionally, the embassy has advised applicants for F, M, and J non-immigrant visas—which include students and exchange visitors—to set their social media profiles to public. This is part of enhanced vetting measures intended to verify applicants’ identities and determine their eligibility under U.S. immigration law.
