US Reduces Visa Validity For Nigerians In Retaliation
US Reduces Visa Validity For Nigerians In Retaliation
The United States Mission has opened up on the reason why it reduced visa validity for non-immigrants in Nigeria.
The US Embassy had recently reduced visa validity for non-immigrants from 5 years to 3 months effective July 8, 2025.
The Nigerian government had faulted the US action with officials suggesting different reasons but saying the US action was not justified.
Although the embassy gave reciprocity as the reason for it’s action, it has now said it was not a reciprocal action
In a post on Friday, the US Mission addressed misconceptions surrounding its visa policy.
The development stems from an ongoing review of US visa policies by other countries, utilizing technical and security benchmarks to enhance the security of the US immigration system.
Furthermore, the US Mission emphasized its commitment to working with the Nigerian government.
The tweet reads,“The U.S. Mission Nigeria wishes to address misconceptions about the recent reduction in visa validity for most nonimmigrant U.S. visas in Nigeria and other countries. This reduction is not the result of any nation’s stance on third-country deportees, introduction of e-visa policies, or affiliations with groups like BRICS.
The reduction in validity is part of an ongoing global review of the use of U.S. visas by other countries using technical and security benchmarks to safeguard U.S. immigration systems.
We value our longstanding partnership with Nigeria and remain committed to working closely with the Nigerian public and government officials to help them meet those criteria and benchmarks, thereby ensuring safe, lawful, and mutually beneficial travel between our nations. Learn more » ng.usembassy.gov/revised-visa.
