The federal government has issued a strong warning to Nigerian citizens on the dangers of misusing U.S. visas, following serious concerns raised by the United States over rising incidents of visa violations by Nigerians.
This warning was contained in an official advisory signed by the spokesperson of the Nigeria Immigration Service( NIS) ACI, A.S Akinlabi, and released on August 1, 2025.
The federal government cautioned all visa holders to strictly comply with the purpose stated in their visa applications. , emphasizing that entering the U.S. is not the end of immigration scrutiny, as U.S. authorities continue to monitor visa holders even after they arrive.
According to the advisory, any breach of U.S. immigration laws, including overstaying, working illegally, or misrepresenting the purpose of travel could lead to immediate deportation, revocation of visas, and permanent ineligibility for future travel to the United States.
Nigerian students in the U.S. were also specifically addressed. The government stressed the importance of remaining in active academic status, warning that withdrawal from studies, prolonged absence, or unauthorised program changes could result in visa cancellation.
These actions, the statement noted, may jeopardize future opportunities for international education.
Furthermore, the advisory touched on a growing concern from U.S. consular officers over the trend of birth tourism. Nigerians applying for tourist visas may face rejection if there is credible suspicion that their primary intention is to give birth in the United States to secure citizenship for their child.
The Nigeria Immigration Service reassured the public that it is working closely with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure Nigeria remains in good standing and is not subjected to broader visa restrictions. However, it underscored that the cooperation depends heavily on the conduct of individual Nigerian travelers.
This warning comes as part of broader efforts by the federal government to safeguard the reputation of the Nigerian passport and ensure that legitimate travelers are not penalized due to the actions of a few who flout immigration laws. Citizens are urged to travel responsibly, respect the terms of their visas, and avoid any action that could lead to deportation or long-term travel bans.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) wishes to inform the general public of concerns raised by the United States Government regarding the misuse of U.S. visas by Nigerians. All visa holders are advised to strictly adhere to the purpose stated in their visa applications.”
“Breach of visa conditions, including overstaying, may attract severe penalties, including removal from the U.S. and permanent ineligibility for future travel. The U.S. is committed to maintaining secure and transparent visa processes.” The statement concluded.
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