The Federal Government has begun diplomatic talks with the United States following the US State Department’s decision to restrict Nigerian non-immigrant visas to single-entry, three-month validity a sharp departure from the previous standard, which allowed qualified Nigerian travellers multiple entries over up to five years.
In a statement issued by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government said it was “concerned” that the new restriction does not align with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect that should guide bilateral ties.
9am News report indicates the US Embassy had explained that the policy, which took effect immediately, is part of its global visa reciprocity programme and does not affect existing valid visas issued before July 8, 2025.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured Nigerians that active diplomatic engagement is underway to persuade Washington to reconsider the measure in a way that reflects fairness and mutual benefit.
“Nigeria notes that this restriction places a disproportionate burden on Nigerian travellers, students, professionals, and families. While acknowledging the sovereign right of every country to determine its immigration policies, Nigeria respectfully urges the United States to reconsider this decision,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates has announced new conditions for Nigerian tourists, setting an age range of 18 to 45 years for visa eligibility. Applicants aged 45 and above must now provide a six-month personal bank statement with a monthly balance of at least $10,000 or its naira equivalent.
Travel agents confirmed the new rule, which comes roughly a year after the UAE lifted a two-year visa ban on Nigerians.
At the same time, the United Kingdom will start issuing digital e-Visas to Nigerians applying for study or work permits beginning July 15, 2025. According to Onyinye Madu of the British High Commission, the move is part of the UK’s plan to fully digitise its immigration system for faster and more secure processing.
Applicants will still need to visit Visa Application Centres for biometrics, but successful candidates will no longer receive physical visa stickers in their passports for study or work visas.
“This marks a big step toward a modern, digital UK immigration system, making travel more secure, efficient, and convenient for Nigerian students, workers, and their families,” the statement read.
The UK clarified that dependents like spouses and children, as well as standard visitor visa applicants, will continue to get the usual visa vignette for now.
With three major immigration updates from the US, UAE, and UK within days, Nigerian travellers are advised to pay attention to the new conditions and prepare relevant documents in advance.
The Federal Government says it will continue to work to secure visa arrangements that reflect mutual respect, ease travel stress for Nigerians abroad, and protect long-standing people-to-people ties with key partner countries.
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