The United States government has introduced a new visa policy that limits most Nigerian non-immigrant visa applicants to a single entry with a three-month validity.
This change, announced by the US Embassy in Abuja on Tuesday, takes immediate effect and is a direct response to Nigeria’s existing visa policy for American citizens.
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According to the embassy, all non-official and non-diplomatic visa applications submitted from July 8, 2025, will now be issued as single-entry visas valid for three months. Previously, many Nigerian applicants were granted multiple-entry visas valid for up to two years.
The embassy clarified that any US visas issued to Nigerian citizens before the policy change will remain valid under their original terms.
This adjustment is part of the US Department of State’s global visa reciprocity framework, which is periodically reviewed and modified to reflect the visa standards of other countries. The embassy emphasized that visa criteria are aligned with international security and technical standards to maintain the integrity of the US immigration system.
The statement highlighted key criteria the US considers in visa policy decisions, including the use of secure travel documents, managing visa overstays, and sharing relevant security information between countries.
While the new rule introduces tighter restrictions, the US government reaffirmed its strong diplomatic relationship with Nigeria. It praised Nigerian immigration and security agencies for their ongoing efforts to adopt international best practices and expressed readiness to continue supporting reforms.
The embassy encouraged Nigerian travelers to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of their documents and to fully comply with the conditions of their visas.
Despite the policy change, the US Mission reiterated its commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria through business, education, and cultural exchanges, and promised continued cooperation with both the Nigerian public and officials.
