The United States has revised its visa policy for Nigerians and other affected countries, now restricting successful Nigerian applicants for non-immigrant visas to a single-entry with a maximum three-month validity. The U.S. Embassy in Abuja confirmed the new rule, which takes effect immediately.
Previously, eligible Nigerian travelers could be granted multiple-entry valid for up to five years. However, the embassy stated that the change is driven by the principle of reciprocity and aligns with ongoing reviews of registration practice across various countries.
According to the embassy’s official statement, the updated visa regulations are part of the State Department’s efforts to safeguard U.S. immigration integrity. It clarified that existing document issued before July 8, 2025, will remain valid and usable until expiration.
The statement explained:
> “Effective immediately, most non-immigrant, non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerians will be single-entry with a three-month validity. Visa reciprocity is a global, ongoing process and can change at any time.”
The embassy emphasized that eligibility standards are based on global security benchmarks, including the issuance of secure travel documents, overstay management, and international information sharing for public safety. It commended Nigeria’s ongoing immigration reforms and efforts to meet these international standards.
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Despite the stricter visa conditions, the U.S. reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria in areas like business, education, and culture. It also encouraged Nigerian applicants to ensure the accuracy and authenticity of their travel documents.
Commenting on the development, former Nigerian High Commissioner to Botswana, Prof. Alaba Ogunsanwo, and former Vice Chancellor of FUOYE, Prof. Kayode Soremekun, described the U.S. restriction as a sovereign right based on reciprocity.
U.S. Adjusts Visa Policy for Nigerians, Limits Entries to Single Three-Month Stay
Prof. Ogunsanwo said:
“When it comes to visa decisions, countries act in their best interest. If Nigeria is dissatisfied, it can simply apply reciprocity.”
Prof. Ogunsanwo added that while the new policy may seem restrictive, it fails to consider Nigeria’s significant contributions to the U.S., particularly in medicine and science. He emphasized the need for Nigeria to highlight its diaspora’s impact when engaging with the U.S.
> “Seven out of ten Black doctors in the U.S. are Nigerians, and many work in underserved areas. Nigerians are also key players in U.S. space and nuclear programs,” he noted.
He concluded that Nigeria’s weak advocacy in bilateral engagements might have contributed to Washington’s decision, suggesting a strategic policy shift in Abuja’s handling of visa and diaspora matters could prompt a U.S. policy reconsideration.
