Connect with us

News

FG Raises Concerns Over Stricter Visa Rules On Nigerian Citizens By United States

Published

5 months ago

on

The Federal Government has raised concerns over the United States’ recent decision to impose stricter visa conditions on Nigerian citizens, describing the move as “disproportionate”.
Similarly, the United Arab Emirates has also introduced new entry restrictions for Nigerians, including a complete ban on transit visa applications.
According to new guidelines from Dubai immigration authorities, Nigerians between the ages of 18 and 45 are no longer eligible for tourist visas unless accompanied, while those aged 45 and above must now provide a six-month personal bank statement showing a monthly balance of at least $10,000 before being granted visas.
On Wednesday, the British High Commission in Abuja announced changes to its immigration process affecting Nigerian applicants for study and work visas.
The Federal Government’s reaction followed an announcement by the US Department of State in Abuja on Tuesday, revealing that effective July 8, 2025, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerians will now be valid for only three months and restricted to single entry.
The revised policy affects visa categories such as B1/B2 (business and tourism), F (student), and J (exchange visitor), significantly reducing the previously longer durations and multiple-entry access.
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, noted that the FG is reviewing the policy and its implications.
“We are assessing the new policy and its necessary implications. The government will respond soon, after due consultation with relevant stakeholders,” Ebienfa said.
In a formal statement issued Wednesday and signed by Ebienfa, the Ministry expressed concern over the new US policy, emphasizing the historically cordial relations between both countries.
“The attention of the Federal Government of Nigeria has been drawn to the recent decision by the United States Government to revise its visa reciprocity schedule for Nigerian citizens, limiting the validity of non-immigrant visas including B1/B2, F and J categories to three months with single entry.
“The Federal Government views this development with concern and keen interest, particularly given the longstanding cordial relations and strong people-to-people ties between our two countries.
“The decision appears misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect that should guide bilateral engagements between friendly nations,” Ebienfa stated.
The FG warned that the new visa rules could significantly impact Nigerian students, professionals, and families traveling for legitimate purposes, while also hampering long-standing cultural and educational exchanges between both nations.
“While acknowledging the sovereign right of every country to determine its immigration policies, Nigeria respectfully urges the United States to reconsider this decision in the spirit of partnership, cooperation, and shared global responsibilities.
“Diplomatic engagements are ongoing, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains committed to pursuing a resolution that reflects fairness and upholds the values of mutual interest,” he added.
As part of efforts to address the issue, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo led a delegation that met with the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills Jr., in Abuja on Wednesday.
Sharing details on his X handle, the Minister wrote: “I held a constructive meeting with the US Ambassador Richard M. Mills Jr. today (Wednesday), to discuss the recently introduced visa procedures for Nigerian nationals.”
Also present at the meeting were the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, and the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nanna Nandap. Discussions focused on improving Nigeria–US visa relations through a well-structured, reciprocal framework.
“The discussions centred on visa reciprocity, with Ambassador Mills Jr. providing valuable insights into the revised protocol and its alignment with established practices to uphold the integrity of the visa process.
“The Ambassador described the new e-visa policy of the Nigeria Immigration Service as an innovation intended to streamline and enhance the application process for foreign travellers into the country,” Tunji-Ojo noted.
He further stated that both sides agreed to strengthen collaboration, particularly in areas such as: Secure travel documents; Visa overstay management and information sharing.
According to the US Embassy, the policy revision stems from the Department of State’s global visa reciprocity initiative aimed at aligning visa practices with international standards and national security requirements.
The embassy clarified that the new rules only apply to visas issued on or after July 8, and existing valid visas will remain unaffected.
It added that the changes are meant to protect the integrity of the US immigration system, citing critical benchmarks such as document security, overstay enforcement, and data-sharing protocols.
Despite the new restrictions, the US reiterated its commitment to maintaining strong bilateral ties with Nigeria and urged Nigerian travelers to comply strictly with all visa conditions.
Related Topics:
Click to comment

You must be logged in to post a comment Login

Leave a Reply

Cancel reply
Advertisement

Trending