The United States (U.S.) Mission in Nigeria has moved to clarify the reasons behind the recent changes in the validity of nonimmigrant visas issued to Nigerians, debunking speculations that the decision is politically motivated or tied to international affiliations.
In an official statement made available to the press, the Mission stated that the reduction in visa validity to a single entry and a three-month duration is not related to Nigeria’s foreign policy stance, its relationship with BRICS, or the introduction of e-visa policies in other countries.
Rather, the move is part of an ongoing global review to ensure the integrity of the U.S. immigration system.
“This reduction is not the result of any nation’s stance on third-country deportees, introduction of e-visa policies, or affiliations with groups like BRICS,” the statement said.
“The reduction in validity is part of an ongoing global review of the use of U.S. visas by other countries using technical and security benchmarks to safeguard U.S. immigration systems.”
The change affects most nonimmigrant and non-diplomatic visa categories for Nigerian citizens and took effect immediately. However, the U.S. Mission clarified that all U.S. visas issued before July 8, 2025, will retain their full validity and status.
The U.S. Department of State recently updated its visa reciprocity policy, which guides the validity period and number of entries permitted for visa applicants from other nations.
The policy, the U.S. government explained, is standard practice globally and remains subject to ongoing review based on evolving technical and security considerations.
“As is standard globally, visa reciprocity is a continuous process and is subject to review and change at any time, such as increasing or decreasing permitted entries and duration of validity,” the U.S. Mission noted. “You can view the latest information on visa reciprocity schedules for all countries at travel.state.gov.”
The U.S. outlined specific benchmarks used in determining visa policy adjustments, including the security of travel documents, visa overstay management, and the level of information sharing between countries.
“These standards are based on global technical and security benchmarks,” the Mission stated.
“Examples include ensuring countries issue secure travel documents with verified traveler identities; implementing measures to limit overstays by travelers on U.S. visas; and sharing relevant security and criminal record information to protect public safety.”
Read also: UAE, US slams new visa restrictions on Nigerian passport holders
Despite the adjustment, the U.S. government reaffirmed its commitment to its bilateral relationship with Nigeria. It commended the Nigerian government’s efforts in reforming immigration and security practices and reiterated its readiness to continue working with Nigerian authorities to meet international standards.
“We value our longstanding partnership with Nigeria and remain committed to working closely with the Nigerian public and government officials to help them meet those criteria and benchmarks, thereby ensuring safe, lawful, and mutually beneficial travel between our nations,” the Mission said.
It also urged Nigerian travelers to ensure that their travel documents are up to date and that they comply with all visa requirements and conditions.
“Nigerian travelers are encouraged to respect and adhere to the terms of their visas, and ensure travel documents are authentic, accurate, and up to date,” the statement read.
While reassuring Nigerians of continued people-to-people engagement, the U.S. stressed its ongoing support for educational, cultural, and business exchanges between the two nations.
“The United States remains a committed partner in deepening people-to-people ties with Nigeria via business, educational, and cultural exchanges. 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.”
The update comes amid growing curiosity and concern among Nigerian travelers over the reduction in visa validity. The U.S. Embassy reiterated that the decision is not punitive, but part of a standard process used to ensure fairness and alignment with U.S. immigration goals.
