The United States Department of State has announced a revised visa reciprocity policy affecting Nigerian applicants for non-immigrant visas. Under the new directive, most non-diplomatic U.S. visas issued to Nigerian citizens will now be valid for only three months and limited to single entry.
The changes, which took immediate effect from July 8, 2025, are part of a global visa reciprocity review that aligns visa validity and entry conditions with policies adopted by other countries, including Nigeria.
According to the U.S. government, all visas issued prior to July 8, 2025, will remain valid under their original terms.
The policy update reflects standard global practices where visa reciprocity is continuously reviewed and adjusted. This may include increasing or decreasing the number of permitted entries, as well as the duration of visa validity.
Nigerians are encouraged to stay informed by checking the visa reciprocity schedules available on travel.state.gov.
The U.S. government emphasized that the decision is not arbitrary but based on technical and security benchmarks required to safeguard its immigration systems.
The Department of State listed several key criteria that influence visa reciprocity decisions:
- Secure travel documents that verify traveler identity
- Effective visa overstay management
- Information sharing on security and criminal records
The U.S. Mission in Nigeria affirmed its continued collaboration with the Government of Nigeria to help the country meet these international standards.
“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 statement read.
It also commended the ongoing efforts of Nigerian immigration and security agencies to meet global best practices and noted that engagement with officials will continue to resolve remaining concerns.
Nigerian travelers were advised to adhere strictly to visa terms, ensure their travel documents are genuine and current, and maintain lawful status while in the United States.
The U.S. reiterated its dedication to deepening people-to-people ties through business, educational, and cultural exchanges, while working with Nigerian authorities to ensure safe, secure, and orderly travel between both countries.
