Revised US Visa Policy On Nigerian Travellers Uncalled For, Says Federal Gov’t

The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed concerns over the decision of the United States Government to slam a revised visa policy on Nigerians, stressing that the decision was not in consonance with the principles of reciprocity.

It noted that the US revised visa policy was at variance with principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect that should guide bilateral engagements between friendly nations.

The Nigerian government, therefore, asked the United States government to rescind its decision in the spirit of partnership, cooperation and shared global responsibilities.

The United States Department of State on Tuesday announced updates to its reciprocal non-immigrant visa policy, impacting several countries, including Nigeria.

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The statement issued on Tuesday by the US Embassy in Abuja said effective immediately, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to citizens of Nigeria will be single-entry visas with a three-month validity period.

According to the statement, those US non-immigrant visas issued prior to July 8, 2025, will retain their status and validity.

US Slashes Nigerian Non-immigrant Visas To Single Entry, 3 Months

“We wish to underscore, that as is standard globally, visa reciprocity is a continuous process and is subject to review and change at any time, such as increasing or decreasing permitted entries and duration of validity,” the Embassy statement had said.

But, in its reaction to the new US policy, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement issued on Wednesday by its Spokesman, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the restriction places a disproportionate burden on Nigerians.

The statement read: “The attention of the Federal Government of Nigeria has been drawn to the recent decision by the United States Government to revise its visa reciprocity schedule for Nigerian citizens, limiting the validity of non-immigrant visas including B1/B2, F and J categories to three months with single entry.

“The Federal Government views this development with concern and keen interest, particularly given the longstanding cordial relations and strong people-to-people ties between our two countries. The decision appears misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect that should guide bilateral engagements between friendly nations.

“Nigeria notes that this restriction places a disproportionate burden on Nigerian travellers, students seeking academic opportunities, professionals engaging in legitimate business, families visiting loved ones and individuals contributing to cultural and educational exchanges.

“While acknowledging the sovereign right of every country to determine its immigration policies, Nigeria respectfully urges the United States to reconsider this decision in the spirit of partnership, cooperation, and shared global responsibilities.

“Diplomatic engagements are ongoing, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains committed to pursuing a resolution that reflects fairness and upholds the values of mutual interest.”