US Tightens Visa Policy for Nigerians, Citing Reciprocity
A significant shift in visa policy between Nigeria and the United States is currently unfolding, with the principle of reciprocity at its core. As of July 8, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has implemented a revised stance, mandating that most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerian citizens will now be single-entry with a three-month validity period.
This new directive marks a notable departure from previous practices, where many Nigerians enjoyed multi-entry visas with extended validities, some spanning up to five years. The U.S. Embassy in Abuja has clarified that this adjustment is part of a continuous global visa reciprocity review process. This process allows the U.S. to modify its visa policies based on how its own citizens are treated in other countries regarding visa matters.
The U.S. emphasizes that its visa criteria and standards are meticulously designed to safeguard the integrity of its immigration systems, adhering to global technical and security benchmarks. These benchmarks include:
Secure Travel Documents: Ensuring that countries issue secure travel documents with verified traveler identities.
Visa Overstay Management: Implementing effective measures to limit overstays by travelers on U.S. visas.
Information Sharing: Facilitating the sharing of relevant security and/or criminal record information to protect public safety.
The U.S. Mission affirms its active collaboration with the Nigerian government to ensure Nigeria can meet these stringent criteria. While commending Nigeria's ongoing efforts by immigration and security agencies to align with international best practices, the U.S. remains committed to engaging with Nigerian officials to address any lingering challenges.
In response, the Nigerian Federal Government has voiced "concern and keen interest" regarding the new U.S. policy. It views the measure as potentially "misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect that should guide bilateral engagements between friendly nations." Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally urged the United States to reconsider its decision, appealing to the spirit of partnership and cooperation and highlighting the potential broad impact on Nigerian students, professionals, and families. Diplomatic channels between the two nations are currently abuzz with efforts to address these concerns and seek a mutually beneficial resolution.
Meanwhile, Nigeria's recently introduced e-visa policy, a forward-looking innovation, was previously lauded by the US envoy. However, this new U.S. policy appears to be a distinct development, primarily focused on the principle of reciprocal treatment.
It is important to note that existing U.S. non-immigrant visas issued prior to July 8, 2025, will retain their original status and validity.
