US Warns Nigerians Against Visa Overstays
The United States Mission in Nigeria has reminded Nigerian travellers that the validity period of a US visa does not determine how long they can remain in the country, urging visitors to comply with their authorised stay to avoid immigration penalties.
In a statement shared through its #VisaWiseTravelSmart campaign, the Mission said the duration of stay is decided by officials of the US Customs and Border Protection at the port of entry, not by the visa’s expiry date.
It explained that a visa only allows a traveller to seek entry into the United States, while the Customs and Border Protection officer determines the authorised period of stay, known as the “Admit Until Date.”
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The Mission advised travellers to check their authorised departure date through their I-94 record after arriving in the United States and ensure they leave before the approved date.
The reminder comes as US authorities increase scrutiny of visa overstays by Nigerian nationals. According to official data, Nigeria recorded a 5.56 per cent overstay rate for B-1/B-2 visitor visas and an 11.90 per cent overstay rate for student and exchange visas.
The Mission warned that remaining in the United States beyond the approved period, even with a valid visa, could lead to immigration violations, visa cancellation and difficulties in obtaining future US visas.
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It also noted that widespread visa overstays could result in stricter visa processing measures for Nigerian applicants, including longer waiting periods and additional documentation requirements.
