By Kalu Blessing Miracle
US Reduces Nigerians’ Visa Validity to Three Months
The United States government has shortened the validity period for non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerians from two years to three months, with a single entry allowance.
This change, confirmed by the US Embassy in Nigeria, is part of what it described as an ongoing global visa reciprocity process aimed at aligning visa policies with international security and technical standards.
In a statement, the embassy explained that the review process is continuous and may result in either extending or reducing visa durations and entry limits, depending on a country’s compliance with global benchmarks.
“The US visa criteria and standards are designed to protect the integrity of our immigration systems,” the embassy said, adding that these standards rely on internationally recognised security frameworks.
It cited examples such as issuing secure travel documents with verified identities, managing visa overstays effectively, and sharing security or criminal information to support public safety.
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The US Mission noted it is working with Nigerian authorities to help the country meet these technical and security benchmarks. It also acknowledged Nigeria’s efforts so far in reforming its immigration and security procedures.
Despite the new restriction, the embassy reaffirmed America’s diplomatic commitment to Nigeria, describing the two nations’ relationship as one built on mutual respect and shared goals.
“We commend the ongoing efforts by the government of Nigeria’s immigration and security agencies to meet standards of international best practices,” it said.
The embassy also urged Nigerian travellers to strictly follow visa regulations and ensure their travel documents are valid and accurate.
It ended by stating, “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 to ensure safe and lawful travel between our countries.”