The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has issued a formal advisory urging citizens to strictly follow the conditions of their U.S. visas, following concerns by the U.S. government over widespread misuse.
- The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) advised citizens to adhere to U.S. visa conditions to avoid penalties
- Students studying in the U.S. must maintain full-time academic status to prevent visa cancellation.
- This advisory aligns Nigeria alongside other African nations in promoting global mobility compliance standards.
In a statement, NIS spokesperson ACI Akinlabi said, “The NIS wishes to inform the general public about the concerns raised by the US government over the misuse of visas by Nigerians.” He warned that violations—such as overstaying or unauthorized activities—could lead to visa revocation, deportation, or permanent travel bans.
“Breach of visa conditions, including overstaying, may attract severe penalties, including removal from the U.S. and permanent ineligibility for future travel,” he said.
Akinlabi also advised Nigerian students in the U.S. to maintain full-time academic status: “Nigerian students in the U.S. must remain in active study. Withdrawal, absenteeism, or change of academic program without notification may lead to visa cancellation and loss of future eligibility.”
He further noted that consular officers can deny tourist visas if they suspect the applicant intends to give birth in the U.S.: “The NIS continues to collaborate with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure Nigeria is not included in any expanded visa restrictions. Compliance with visa regulations is essential to safeguard legitimate travel by Nigerian citizens.”
U.S-Nigeria travel advisory
As of mid-July 2025, the United States maintains a Level 3 travel advisory for Nigeria, urging citizens to reconsider travel due to persistent threats from crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed gangs, and inadequate healthcare services.
In addition to security concerns, the U.S. government has also issued fresh visa-related warnings to Nigerian applicants.
On July 8, 2025, the U.S. Department of State revised its visa reciprocity policy, reducing the validity of most non-immigrant, non-diplomatic visas for Nigerian citizens to three months, single entry. Previously issued visas remain valid under their original terms.
Furthermore, in a July 28, 2025 memo, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria warned that travel primarily for childbirth purposes, commonly referred to as birth tourism, is prohibited. Visa applications suspected of being linked to this practice may be denied, with applicants subject to heightened scrutiny and possible penalties for misrepresentation.
Together, these measures reflect a broader tightening of U.S. immigration controls targeting both security and immigration integrity concerns.
Nigeria’s issuance of this advisory brings it in line with 36 other African countries facing potential travel restrictions. Authorities and U.S. missions in these countries have warned against visa fraud, overstays, and misuse of travel privileges.
This regional effort aims to ensure African travelers comply with global mobility standards, preserving the continent’s diplomatic and travel reputation.
