Abuja, Nigeria — The United States Department of State has revised its nonimmigrant visa policy for Nigerian citizens, reducing most visa types to single-entry with a maximum validity of three months, effective immediately.
In a statement released by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, the policy change affects non-official and nonimmigrant visa categories and took effect on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. However, visas issued before this date remain valid and unchanged.
“Most nonimmigrant and non-official visas for Nigerian citizens will be single-entry with 3-month validity,” the U.S. Mission confirmed via its official handle @USinNigeria. “Visas issued before July 8, 2025 remain unchanged.”
The updated policy stems from a standard global practice known as visa reciprocity, which involves aligning U.S. visa terms with how U.S. citizens are treated by the visa policies of other countries.
According to the U.S. State Department, criteria influencing this change include:
- Secure Travel Documents: Countries must issue secure passports and travel IDs.
- Visa Overstay Management: Nations should effectively limit and manage visa overstays.
- Information Sharing: Timely sharing of security and criminal data is required to safeguard public safety.
The U.S. stressed that visa reciprocity is dynamic and subject to change based on evolving standards and mutual diplomatic reviews. “As is standard globally, visa reciprocity is a continuous process,” the statement read.
While the decision may pose additional hurdles for Nigerian travelers, the U.S. emphasized its commitment to a strong bilateral relationship with Nigeria.
“The United States values its longstanding relationship with Nigeria… and remains a committed partner in deepening people-to-people ties via business, educational, and cultural exchanges.”
The U.S. Mission also commended efforts by Nigerian immigration and security authorities to meet international best practices and noted ongoing consultations with the Nigerian government to resolve outstanding concerns.
Nigerian citizens planning to travel to the United States are now advised to:
- Check the validity and terms of their visas;
- Ensure their travel documents are authentic and up to date;
- Adhere strictly to the conditions of their visa stay.
More details on country-specific visa terms can be accessed via the official Visa Reciprocity Schedule at travel.state.gov.
