The United States has announced a significant revision to its non-immigrant visa policy for Nigerian nationals, limiting the majority of such visas to a single entry with a validity period of three months.
According to an official statement issued by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria on Monday, the revised visa reciprocity policy takes effect immediately and applies to most non-diplomatic visa categories. However, previously issued U.S. visas remain valid until their respective expiration dates.
“Effective immediately, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to citizens of Nigeria will be single-entry visas with a three-month validity period,” the statement noted.
The policy change is part of a broader, standard global practice of continuous review of visa reciprocity, which governs how visa privileges are granted based on the treatment U.S. citizens receive from other nations. The U.S. State Department noted that reciprocity schedules can be amended at any time to either extend or restrict the number of permitted entries and duration of stay.
The revised approach also aligns with international immigration and security protocols. The U.S. government listed key standards guiding visa policies, including the issuance of secure travel documents with verified identities, mechanisms to manage visa overstays, and comprehensive information sharing on criminal or security-related matters.
“The U.S. Mission is working with the Government of Nigeria to ensure that Nigeria can meet the criteria,” the statement added.
While expressing appreciation for the ongoing efforts of Nigerian authorities to align with international best practices, the U.S. government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.
“The United States values its longstanding relationship with Nigeria and remains committed to expanding our partnership based on mutual respect, shared security priorities, and economic opportunity,” the statement said.
The U.S. further encouraged Nigerian travellers to adhere strictly to the terms of their visas and ensure their travel documents are “authentic, accurate, and up to date.”
Despite the tightening of visa terms, Washington expressed optimism about future cooperation, especially in areas of trade, education, and cultural exchange.
“We look forward to continued cooperation at all levels with the Nigerian public and government officials to ensure safe and lawful travel between the United States and all countries,” the U.S. Mission stated.
Source: graphic.com.gh
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