U.S. Cuts Nigerian Visa Validity to Three Months Amid Global Reciprocity Review
ABUJA, NG — July 9, 2025 | IDNN Foreign Affairs Desk
WASHINGTON, DC / ABUJA — In a sweeping diplomatic shift, the United States has revised its visa policy for Nigerian nationals, cutting most non-immigrant visa validity from two years to just three months. The new restriction — which applies immediately to most non-diplomatic, single-entry visas — was announced by the U.S. Embassy in Abuja on Tuesday.
The embassy clarified that any U.S. visas issued before July 8, 2025, will retain their existing validity and entry status. However, new applicants will now be issued visas valid for just 90 days, marking a significant change in U.S.-Nigeria travel relations.
“This policy update is part of the U.S. Department of State’s global visa reciprocity process,” the embassy stated, stressing that the decision is subject to further review and may include future changes in the number of entries and visa duration.
Why the Shift?
The United States cited several factors driving the change, notably Nigeria’s inability to meet key global visa security and travel benchmarks. These include:
-
Secure travel documents that verify identities
-
Visa overstay management, with enforcement and reporting systems
-
Security data sharing and criminal record cooperation
“These updates are aligned with U.S. immigration system standards based on international technical and security protocols,” the statement noted.
Officials emphasized that Washington is actively collaborating with Nigerian immigration and security authorities to address the gaps and work toward potential revisions.
🇺🇸 U.S.-Nigeria Relations Still “Strong”
Despite the stricter visa terms, the embassy reaffirmed America’s diplomatic commitment to Nigeria, describing the relationship as “longstanding” and rooted in mutual priorities, including economic cooperation and public safety.
“We value our relationship with Nigeria and remain committed to expanding our partnership based on mutual respect, shared security priorities, and economic opportunity,” the embassy declared.
In a rare note of encouragement, U.S. officials publicly acknowledged Nigerian reform efforts, particularly within immigration and national security institutions.
“We commend the ongoing efforts by Nigeria’s immigration and security agencies to meet standards of international best practices,” the statement said.
What It Means for Nigerian Travellers
With immediate effect, most Nigerian travelers to the U.S. will now need to reapply for new visas within 90 days of issuance unless already holding long-term visas granted before the policy took effect.
The U.S. urged Nigerian applicants to respect visa conditions, keep travel documents updated, and avoid violations that could affect future eligibility.
“Nigerian travellers are encouraged to comply with the terms of their visas and ensure authenticity and accuracy of their travel documents,” the embassy stated.
Looking Ahead
While the new policy presents hurdles for frequent Nigerian visitors to the U.S., the embassy concluded on a diplomatic note, reaffirming people-to-people ties through educational, cultural, and business exchanges.
“The United States remains committed to deepening our ties with the Nigerian people and government officials at all levels to ensure safe and lawful travel,” the statement concluded.
This is IDNN. Independent. Digital. Uncompromising.
