The Nigerian government has reacted following new United States (US) Visa policy.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, had a “constructive engagement” with H.E Richard Mills Jr., Ambassador of the United States of America, after the US Department of State made known updates to its reciprocal non-immigrant visa policy, affecting several countries, with Nigeria included.
According to the Minister Ojukwu: “NEW U.S.A VISA POLICY BEGINS…It was a constructive engagement at our Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the Ambassador of the United States of America, H.E Richard Mills Jr. and his delegation. The US Department of State has announced updates to its reciprocal non-immigrant visa policy, impacting several countries, including Nigeria.
“Effective 8 July 2025, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to citizens of Nigeria will be single-entry visas with a three-month validity period.
“Those U.S. non-immigrant visas issued prior to July 8, 2025, will retain their status and validity.
“The Government of Nigeria, through the relevant MDAs, is working with the US mission to ensure that the criteria that gave rise to this revision are evaluated and addressed.
These criteria include:
Secure Travel Documents: Ensuring countries issue secure travel documents with verified traveler identities.
Visa Overstay Management: Implementing measures to limit overstays by travelers on U.S. visas.
Information Sharing: Sharing relevant security and/or criminal record information to protect public safety.
“The United States has reiterated that it values its longstanding relationship with Nigeria and remains committed to expanding this partnership based on mutual respect, shared security priorities, and economic opportunity.
“On our own part, it should be noted that our security agencies as well as our Immigration agencies, have been working very hard to meet standards of international best practices in this regard, mindful of the fact that visa reciprocity is a continuous process and is subject to review and change at any time.
“Meantime, Nigerian travelers are encouraged to respect and adhere to the terms of their visas and ensure travel documents are authentic, accurate, and up to date as our government continues to intensify efforts to facilitate the revision of this policy.”
Photo: Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu | H.E Richard Mills Jr.
