US Tightens Visa Policy for Nigerian Citizens

The United States Department of State has announced significant changes to its visa policy for Nigerian citizens. Effective immediately, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerians will be limited to single-entry with a validity period of only three months.

This new policy will impact various categories of visas, including:

B1/B2 Tourist Visas:Single-entry visas valid for three months, restricting travel flexibility
Student Visas (F, M, J):Single-entry visas valid for three months, affecting students and scholars
Business-Related Visas:Single-entry visas valid for three months, limiting business travel opportunities.The US Department of State claims this move aligns with its reciprocal non-immigrant visa policy, designed to protect the integrity of the US immigration system. The policy aims to ensure that visa issuance is consistent with security benchmarks, including .
Issuing secure, verifiable travel documents
Effective management of visa overstays.This policy shift may affect people-to-people ties between the US and Nigeria, particularly in areas like education, business, and cultural exchange. Existing visas issued before July 8, 2025, will remain valid for their original duration, but new applicants will be subject to the new restrictions.The US Department of State’s decision to restrict Nigerian non-immigrant visas to single-entry, three-month validity periods marks a significant change in visa policy. Nigerian citizens and organizations will need to adapt to these new regulations, which may impact travel, business, and educational pursuits in the US.