The United States Department of State has introduced changes to its reciprocal non-immigrant visa policy affecting multiple countries, including Nigeria. Under the updated guidelines, effective immediately, most non-diplomatic and non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerian citizens will now be limited to a single entry with a validity period of three months.

However, all U.S. visas granted before July 8, 2025, will remain valid under their original terms.

According to the U.S. Mission, visa reciprocity is a standard international practice, routinely reviewed and adjusted based on security requirements, technical considerations, and diplomatic relations. Changes may include modifications to the number of permitted entries and the duration of stay. For the most recent updates, travelers are advised to consult the U.S. Department of State’s visa reciprocity schedule available at travel.state.gov.

The U.S. government emphasized that visa issuance policies are grounded in global security benchmarks to protect the integrity of its immigration system. These benchmarks include:

Secure Travel Documentation: Ensuring that countries issue biometric-enabled and verifiable travel documents.

Visa Overstay Control: Demonstrating effective mechanisms to monitor and minimize overstays by travelers.

Information Sharing: Cooperating on the exchange of relevant security and criminal history data to enhance public safety.

The U.S. government acknowledged Nigeria's efforts in aligning with international immigration standards and reiterated its commitment to ongoing cooperation with Nigerian authorities to address outstanding concerns.

“The United States values its longstanding bilateral relationship with Nigeria and remains committed to deepening cooperation based on mutual respect, security interests, and economic collaboration,” the U.S. Mission stated. It also praised the continued reforms by Nigeria’s immigration and security institutions aimed at improving system integrity.

Nigerian travelers are encouraged to comply with visa regulations, maintain updated and authentic travel documents, and ensure full adherence to the terms of their stay in the U.S.

The United States reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening ties through cultural, educational, and economic exchanges, and expressed optimism about continued engagement with both Nigerian citizens and government officials to promote safe, lawful, and mutually beneficial travel.