The United States has revised its visa policy for Nigeria, restricting most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerian citizens to single-entry with a three-month validity period.
This was disclosed by the U.S. Department of State in an update to its reciprocal visa policy, which also affects several other countries on Tuesday.
“Effective immediately, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to citizens of Nigeria will be single-entry visas with a three-month validity period,” it said.
According to the statement, all non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerians prior to July 8, 2025, will retain their existing validity and multiple-entry status.
“We wish to underscore, that as is standard globally, visa reciprocity is a continuous process. It is subject to change at any time, including the number of permitted entries and duration of validity
“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 U.S. Mission is working with the Government of Nigeria to ensure that Nigeria can meet the criteria.” it said.
The updated policy aims to align visa issuance terms with the principle of reciprocity and to uphold the integrity of the U.S. immigration system, based on global technical and security benchmarks.
The U.S. government listed several standard criteria expected of countries under its visa reciprocity framework, including: issuance of secure travel documents with verified identities, visa overstay management mechanisms and
information sharing on security and criminal records for public safety.
The statement emphasized that the U.S. Mission in Nigeria is working closely with Nigerian authorities to ensure compliance with these international standards.
“We commend the ongoing efforts by Nigeria’s immigration and security agencies to meet international best practices,” it added.
The U.S. government also urged Nigerian travelers to adhere strictly to the terms of their visas and ensure their documents are authentic, accurate, and valid.
Despite the new restrictions, the U.S. reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria, particularly in areas of business, education, and cultural exchange.
“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.
“We commend the ongoing efforts by the Government of Nigeria’s immigration and security agencies to meet standards of international best practices. We continue to engage with Nigerian government officials to address the remaining challenges.
“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 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 statement noted..
