The United States said its reduction in visa validity is part of a global update affecting several countries and aimed at aligning visa issuance with U.S. national security and immigration standards.
The United States, in its updated visa policy on Tuesday, said effective July 8, 2025, most non-diplomatic, non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerian citizens will be limited to single entry and valid for only three months.
A statement by the U.S. Mission Nigeria said the clarification became necessary amid misconceptions of the revised visa policy.
The Federal Government had alleged that the visa cut may not be unconnected to Nigeria’s refusal to accept deported Venezuelan prisoners and illegal immigrants from the United States.
In a statement shared on its X handle, the Mission clarified that the reduction in visa validity was not a result of Nigeria’s stance on third-country deportees, introduction of e-visa policies, or affiliations with groups like BRICS.
The statement read: “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.
