Why Visa Validity Was Reduced For Nigerians – US Embassy

The US Mission in Nigeria has clarified that the decision is not a response to recent reforms carried out by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), amidst concerns over the recent reduction in the validity period of nonimmigrant visas for Nigerians by the US.

Since 2023, Nigeria’s Ministry of Interior, led by Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has introduced extensive immigration reforms. These include digital innovations such as the new visa regime replacing the Visa-on-Arrival policy with an e-Visa Application Channel, e-CERPAC, Landing and Exit Cards, and Temporary Work Permits.

Additionally, the NIS installed electronic gates at major airports and launched a Command and Control Centre, all aimed at leveraging technology to streamline immigration processes, enhance security, and improve the experience for travellers and stakeholders.

Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump announced a 10% tariff on Nigerian goods exported to the US—a move viewed by some as a reaction to President Bola Tinubu’s participation in the BRICS summit in Brazil.

Further adding to the tensions, the US Embassy in Nigeria recently imposed visa restrictions, limiting Nigerian nonimmigrant visas to single-entry with a validity of three months.

However, in a tweet on Friday, the US Mission Nigeria dismissed these concerns, explaining that the reduction in visa validity is part of a global review process based on technical and security standards to protect US immigration systems.

The Mission stated, “The reduction is not the result of any country’s stance on third-country deportees, e-visa policies, or affiliations with groups like BRICS.”

It emphasized, “This is part of an ongoing global review of visa usage to safeguard US immigration systems. We value our longstanding partnership with Nigeria and remain committed to working closely with Nigerian authorities and the public to meet these criteria and ensure safe, lawful, and mutually beneficial travel between our nations.”