The United States government has officially revised its visa policy for Nigerian citizens, significantly reducing the validity of most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas to just three months with a single entry. This major policy change, announced on Tuesday, July 9, 2025, by the US Embassy in Abuja, has already taken effect, sparking widespread concern among Nigerian travellers and prompting calls for diplomatic engagement from the Federal Government.
According to the statement issued by the US Embassy, all non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerian citizens from July 8, 2025, onwards will now be valid for only three months and permit just one entry into the United States. However, previously issued visas will maintain their original validity and terms.
The embassy clarified that the new visa guidelines are part of the US Department of State’s global visa reciprocity review, an ongoing policy framework used to align visa rules with international security and diplomatic standards. “This change is a product of the Department’s global visa reciprocity process, which is subject to review and change based on technical and security benchmarks,” the statement read.
The US cited several technical and security benchmarks that must be met by countries to maintain or improve visa privileges. These include:
Secure travel documentation that confirms identity
Effective visa overstay management
Robust information-sharing systems, particularly related to criminal records and immigration enforcement.
The embassy noted that while the US government continues to value its strategic and diplomatic relationship with Nigeria, the new policy is a necessary measure to ensure the integrity of its immigration system.
“US visa criteria and standards are designed to protect the integrity of US immigration systems,” the embassy stated, reaffirming its commitment to partnering with Nigerian authorities to meet international best practices.
In response to the sudden change, the Nigerian government has appealed to the United States to reconsider the new restrictions. Senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigeria Immigration Service have described the policy as “a setback” to bilateral travel relations and have called for constructive dialogue to address any gaps in the visa reciprocity framework.
“We believe the longstanding diplomatic and economic relationship between Nigeria and the US can allow for a more flexible visa regime that benefits both nations,” a source within the ministry told The Punch.
The policy change has drawn mixed reactions from travel agencies, students, and business travellers who frequently shuttle between both countries. Many expressed concern over the limited entry period, warning it could disrupt educational plans, business engagements, and cultural exchanges.
Amina Yusuf, a Nigerian postgraduate student planning to attend a conference in New York, said, “The three-month single-entry restriction adds a layer of uncertainty. We now have to plan trips much more tightly and pay for visa renewals more often, which can be financially burdensome.”
Chuka Okafor, a Lagos-based business consultant, added, “For those of us who do frequent business trips to the US, this could impact trade engagements. The Nigerian government needs to respond swiftly.”
Despite the stricter visa terms, the US has reiterated its commitment to deepening diplomatic and economic relations with Nigeria.
“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,” the embassy said.
It also acknowledged Nigeria’s ongoing reforms in immigration and security, urging travellers to comply with US visa conditions and present authentic documents.
While the move does not affect diplomatic or official visa holders, its implications for thousands of Nigerians who travel for education, business, or tourism are significant. The need for more frequent renewals could result in increased costs and administrative burdens for travellers.
Stakeholders now await possible negotiations between Nigerian and US officials that could result in more favourable terms, particularly if Nigeria meets the benchmarks outlined by the US Department of State.