United States Reduces Visa Duration for Nigerians to 3 Months

The United States Department of State has made a change to its non-immigrant visa rules for Nigerian nationals.

In a statement released by the US Embassy in Abuja on Tuesday, it was announced that “most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to citizens of Nigeria will be single-entry visas with a three-month validity period.”

This new rule is effective immediately.

Nonetheless, the embassy stated that “those US non-immigrant visas issued before July 8, 2025, will retain their status and validity.”

It further clarified that the change is part of the Department’s ongoing visa reciprocity review process, which the embassy described as “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 US authorities provided their reasoning for the revision, explaining that “US visa criteria and standards are designed to protect the integrity of US immigration systems.”

The embassy said “these standards are based on global technical and security benchmarks.”

It also mentioned that the US Mission is working alongside Nigerian officials to help them align with these standards.

“The US Mission is working with the Government of Nigeria to ensure that Nigeria can meet the criteria,” the statement said.

Examples of these standard criteria include “Secure travel documents: ensuring countries issue secure travel documents with verified traveller identities, Visa overstay management: Implementing measures to limit overstays by travellers on US visas, and Information sharing: Sharing relevant security and/or criminal record information to protect public safety.”

Despite these changes, the embassy reiterated the US government’s commitment to its relationship with Nigeria.

“The United States values its longstanding relationship with Nigeria and remains committed to expanding our partnership based on mutual respect, shared security priorities, and economic opportunity, keeping both our countries safer and stronger,” the statement read.

The embassy acknowledged the efforts of Nigerian authorities and praised ongoing immigration and security reforms aimed at meeting global standards.

Nigerian visitors were reminded to follow all visa rules.

“Nigerian travellers are encouraged to respect and adhere to the terms of their visas, and ensure travel documents are authentic, accurate, and up to date.”

In conclusion, the embassy reaffirmed the US’s ongoing connection with Nigeria’s government and citizens.

“The United States remains a committed partner in deepening people-to-people ties with Nigeria via business, educational, and cultural exchanges.

“We look forward to continued cooperation at all levels with the Nigerian public and government officials to ensure safe and lawful travel between the United States and all countries,” it stated.

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