The United States government has introduced new visa regulations that place stricter conditions on Nigerian applicants, warning that any violation of visa terms could result in removal from the country and a permanent travel ban.
This warning was issued by the US Mission in Nigeria through its official account on X, formerly known as Twitter. The message urged Nigerians to follow all visa rules carefully.
“Staying in the United States beyond the permitted time may lead to deportation and a lifetime prohibition from returning,” the statement said.
These new measures are part of a wider immigration policy introduced by former President Donald Trump. The updated policy includes reduced visa validity, higher fees, and more entry restrictions for Nigerians traveling to the US for tourism, education, or business.
Under the new guidelines, Nigerians applying for visas outside diplomatic channels will now receive a single entry visa valid for only 90 days. US officials say the change is due to frequent cases of visa misuse, forged documents, and national security concerns.
In addition to reduced visa validity, applicants in certain categories including business, tourism, student, employment, and exchange programs will now be required to pay a Visa Integrity Fee of 250 dollars. Visa categories for diplomats such as A and G will not be affected by this fee.
Other charges have also been introduced. Travelers must now pay 24 dollars for the I94 travel record and 13 dollars for the ESTA form, which applies to nationals of countries under the Visa Waiver Program.
US authorities say the new rules are part of efforts to strengthen immigration procedures, prevent fraudulent applications, and improve national security.
As part of these tougher procedures, applicants for student and exchange visas must now give immigration officers access to their social media accounts. This will allow US officials to review their online activity as part of background checks.
These changes are in line with earlier directives signed by former President Trump, which focus on tightening border controls, increasing internal screening, and ensuring stricter enforcement of immigration laws.
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