The United States has revised its visa reciprocity policy for Nigeria. According to an official announcement from the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, most non-immigrant, non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerian citizens will now be limited to single-entry visas and valid for just three months.
This change applies to new visa applications only. Visas issued before July 8, 2025, will remain valid for their originally approved duration.
Why the Change?
Visa reciprocity is a global practice where the U.S. adjusts visa conditions based on how other countries treat U.S. citizens. These reviews are ongoing and can result in increased or decreased visa validity and the number of permitted entries.
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The U.S. Department of State uses the following criteria when reviewing visa policies:
- Secure travel documents: Countries must issue secure, verifiable travel documents.
- Visa overstay management: Effective systems must be in place to prevent overstays.
- Information sharing: Countries should share security and criminal information when necessary to protect public safety.
Nigeria–U.S. Partnership Still Strong
The U.S. government stressed that this policy update does not signal a weakening of Nigeria-U.S. relations. On the contrary, the United States reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening diplomatic, security, and economic ties with Nigeria. Officials also praised the progress made by Nigerian immigration and security agencies in aligning with global best practices.
However, the US used to issue a two-year visa validity with multiple entries for many Nigerians before this new policy.
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What This Means for Nigerian Travellers
If you’re planning to travel to the United States:
- Check your visa carefully – new visas will likely be valid for just one entry within three months.
- Comply fully with all visa conditions, including your permitted length of stay.
- Ensure your travel documents are accurate, genuine, and up to date.
The U.S. remains open to Nigerians for educational, cultural, and business opportunities, and continues to support stronger people-to-people exchanges between both countries.
For up-to-date details on U.S. visa reciprocity schedules, visit: travel.state.gov
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