The United States Department of State has updated its reciprocal non-immigrant visa policy, affecting several countries, including Nigeria. Effective immediately, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerian citizens will now be single-entry visas with a three-month validity period.
Visas issued before July 8, 2025, will maintain their current status and validity. The Department of State emphasized that "visa reciprocity is a continuous process and is subject to review and change at any time," which may include changes in the number of permitted entries or the duration of validity. For the latest information on visa reciprocity schedules for all countries, individuals are directed to visit travel.state.gov.
The U.S. government stated that its visa criteria are designed to protect the integrity of U.S. immigration systems based on global technical and security benchmarks. The U.S. Mission is collaborating with the Government of Nigeria to ensure compliance with these criteria.
Standard criteria highlighted include secure travel documents with verified traveler identities, measures to limit visa overstays, and sharing relevant security or criminal record information for public safety protection.
The United States expressed its commitment to maintaining a strong relationship with Nigeria based on mutual respect, shared security priorities, and economic opportunities. It commended Nigeria's ongoing efforts through its immigration and security agencies to meet international best practices standards while continuing engagement with Nigerian officials to address remaining challenges.
Nigerian travelers are advised to adhere strictly to their visa terms and ensure their travel documents are authentic and up-to-date. The United States remains committed to strengthening people-to-people ties through business, educational, and cultural exchanges with Nigeria. It looks forward to continued cooperation at all levels between both nations' public sectors and government officials for safe and lawful travel.