Abuja, 9 July 2025 – The United States has introduced significant changes to its non-immigrant visa policy for Nigerian citizens, effective 8 July 2025. The updates, announced by the US Department of State, were discussed in a constructive meeting at Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs with US Ambassador Richard Mills Jr. and his delegation.
Under the new policy, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerian citizens will be single-entry visas valid for three months. Visas issued before 8 July 2025 will retain their original status and validity.
The Nigerian government is actively engaging with the US mission to address the criteria prompting this revision, which include:
- Secure Travel Documents: Ensuring countries issue secure travel documents with verified traveller identities.
- Visa Overstay Management: Implementing measures to reduce overstays by travellers on US visas.
- Information Sharing: Providing relevant security and criminal record information to enhance public safety.
The US has reaffirmed its commitment to its longstanding partnership with Nigeria, emphasising mutual respect, shared security priorities, and economic opportunities. Nigerian authorities, including security and immigration agencies, are working diligently to align with international best practices. Visa reciprocity remains a dynamic process, subject to ongoing review.
Nigerian travellers are urged to comply with visa terms and ensure their travel documents are authentic, accurate, and up to date. The Nigerian government is intensifying efforts to facilitate a review of this policy, aiming to ease its impact on citizens.
