The Federal Government has appealed to the United States to reconsider its newly implemented visa reciprocity policy, which restricts Nigerian non-immigrant visas to a single entry with a validity period of just three months.
This appeal was made in a statement released by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The government voiced concern that this policy change comes despite the collaborative relationship and mutual responsibilities shared by both nations on the global stage.
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“The attention of the government has been drawn to the recent decision by the U.S. to revise its visa reciprocity schedule for Nigerian citizens, limiting the validity of non-immigrant visas, including B1/B2, F and J categories, to three months with a single entry,” the statement read.
Highlighting the long-standing diplomatic ties and close people-to-people relationships between Nigeria and the United States, the government described the development as troubling.
“Government views this development with concern and keen interest, particularly given the longstanding cordial relations and strong people-to-people ties between our two countries.
“The decision appears misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity and mutual respect that should guide bilateral engagements between friendly nations.
“Nigeria notes this restriction places a disproportionate burden on Nigerian travellers, students seeking academic opportunities, professionals engaging in legitimate business, families visiting loved ones, and individuals contributing to cultural and educational exchanges.
“Nigeria respectfully urges the U.S. to reconsider this decision in the spirit of partnership, cooperation and shared global responsibilities, while acknowledging the sovereign right of every country to determine its immigration policies,” it added.
The Federal Government further stated that diplomatic efforts are ongoing to ensure a resolution that is balanced, fair, and reflective of the interests of both countries.
Breakingng.com recalls that the U.S. Embassy had on Tuesday announced new changes to its reciprocal non-immigrant visa arrangement which affected Nigerian citizens.
The U.S. government emphasized that visas issued before July 8, 2025, will remain valid under their existing terms.
However, the new policy takes effect right away for all subsequent visa applications.
“We wish to underscore, that 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 Department stated in a press release.
The U.S. government explained that visa reciprocity is a globally recognized practice subject to periodic review and may be adjusted at any time to reflect entry limits and visa durations.
