The Federal Government has called on the United States to reconsider its recent decision to shorten visa validity for Nigerians, describing the move as unfair and not in line with the long-standing relationship between the two countries.
This appeal came shortly after the United Arab Emirates introduced new travel conditions, and the United Kingdom announced a shift to digital eVisas for work and study applicants from Nigeria.
The US now limits Nigerian non-immigrant visas, including student and business categories, to single-entry, three-month validity. This change, announced by the US Department of State, took effect from July 8, 2025.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement signed by its spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, said Nigeria was surprised by the decision and urged Washington to reverse the policy.
“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 statement read.
Ebienfa said the policy could affect students, business professionals, and families visiting the US, and called for understanding and fairness.
“We respectfully urge the United States to reconsider this decision in the spirit of partnership, cooperation, and shared global responsibilities,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, met with US Ambassador Richard Mills Jr. to discuss the issue. The meeting also included officials from the Nigeria Immigration Service. The talks focused on strengthening collaboration and improving compliance with international travel standards.
Tunji-Ojo said Nigeria remains committed to ensuring secure travel documents, better handling of visa overstays, and cooperation on security matters.
The US Embassy said the change is part of a worldwide visa policy review to match other countries’ treatment of US citizens. It added that all visas issued before July 8 will remain valid until they expire.
As Nigeria tries to manage the fallout, the UAE has made it harder for Nigerians to get tourist visas. Dubai immigration now requires Nigerians aged 18 to 45 to travel only if accompanied. Those above 45 must show six months’ worth of bank statements proving a \$10,000 monthly balance.
Travel agents say the move could heavily reduce Nigerian traffic to Dubai, a popular destination for business and leisure.
The United Kingdom, on its part, has introduced digital eVisas for most Nigerians applying for study and work visas from July 15, 2025. The new system replaces physical visa stickers with a secure online immigration record.
Applicants must still attend visa centres to give biometrics but will now get email instructions to access their digital visas. Gill Atkinson, Chargé d’Affaires at the British High Commission, said the new eVisa system will make travel faster and safer for Nigerians.
As the three countries adjust their visa rules, opposition parties in Nigeria have blamed the government for failing to fix the country and reduce the need for mass migration.
Labour Party’s Deputy Chairman, Ayo Olorunfemi, said the clampdown on Nigerians abroad is a direct result of poor leadership. “Every country is moving forward, but Nigeria is stuck,” he said.
NNPP spokesperson, Ladipo Johnson, also described the visa changes as a signal that Nigeria’s global image is suffering. “It is a wake-up call for the government to put its house in order,” he said.
Online, the decisions sparked heated reactions. Dele Momodu, a PDP chieftain, linked the US move to Nigeria’s foreign policy shift. Bashir Ahmad, a former aide to ex-President Buhari, claimed the visa change reflects America’s discomfort with Nigeria’s growing ties with BRICS.
President Tinubu’s aide, Daniel Bwala, dismissed such claims. He said Nigeria remains on good terms with the US and is already working to review and address the visa reciprocity issue.
