In a major shift in its visa policy, the United States Department of State has announced new changes to its reciprocal non-immigrant visa arrangement, which will significantly affect Nigerian citizens.
Effective immediately, most U.S. non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerians will now be restricted to single-entry use with a three-month validity period.
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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 public has been advised to monitor updates on the U.S. visa reciprocity schedule through travel.state.gov.
The U.S. government cited national immigration standards and global security benchmarks as central to the decision.
“U.S. visa criteria and standards are designed to protect the integrity of U.S. immigration systems. These standards are based on global technical and security benchmarks,” the Department added.
Examples of standard criteria include:
Secure Travel Documents: Ensuring countries issue secure travel documents with verified traveler identities.
Visa Overstay Management: Implementing measures to limit overstays by travelers on U.S. visas.
Information Sharing: Sharing relevant security and/or criminal record information to protect public safety.
These requirements, the U.S. said, are being discussed in active collaboration with Nigerian authorities.
“The U.S. Mission is working with the Government of Nigeria to ensure that Nigeria can meet the criteria,” the release stated. It further commended the Nigerian government’s ongoing reforms in immigration and security, noting: “We commend the ongoing efforts by the Government of Nigeria’s immigration and security agencies to meet standards of international best practices.”
In a gesture aimed at reassuring bilateral ties, the U.S. reiterated its commitment to strengthening relations with Nigeria, particularly in areas of mutual benefit.
“The United States values its longstanding relationship with Nigeria and remains committed to expanding our partnership based on mutual respect, shared security priorities, and economic opportunity, keeping both our countries safer and stronger,” the Department emphasized.
Nigerian travelers were also reminded to comply with U.S. visa regulations to avoid complications during entry.
“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.
Despite the stricter policy, the U.S. assured that opportunities for collaboration remain open, especially in areas like trade, education, and culture. “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 visa restriction comes amid broader diplomatic and immigration discussions between both nations, highlighting the delicate balance between border security and international cooperation.