The Federal Government has expressed concern over the newly revised United States visa reciprocity policy, urging a reconsideration in the interest of longstanding diplomatic relations between both countries.
Under the new policy, non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerians are now limited to single-entry with a validity of just three months.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria described the development as placing an “undue and disproportionate burden on Nigerian travellers.”
“Nigeria respectfully urges the U.S. to reconsider this decision in the spirit of partnership, cooperation, and shared global responsibilities, while acknowledging the sovereign right of every country to determine its immigration policies,” the statement read.
Ebienfa noted that the Nigerian government views the restriction with concern, particularly in light of the “longstanding cordial relations and strong people-to-people ties” between both nations.
According to him, the decision appears inconsistent with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect expected in bilateral engagements between friendly countries.
“Nigeria notes this restriction places a disproportionate burden on Nigerian travellers, students seeking academic opportunities, professionals engaging in legitimate business, families visiting loved ones, and individuals contributing to cultural and educational exchanges,” the statement further read.
The ministry added that Nigeria is actively engaging through diplomatic channels to address the matter.
On Tuesday, the US Embassy in Nigeria announced the implementation of the new visa rules, stating: “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 embassy explained that the measure is part of the Trump-era visa reciprocity framework, which has affected several countries, including Nigeria.
“As is standard globally, visa reciprocity is a continuous process and is subject to review and change at any time, such as increasing or decreasing permitted entries and duration of validity,” the embassy added.
However, it clarified that the new rule does not apply to US non-immigrant visas issued before July 8, 2025.
