The United States has warned Nigerians against overstaying their visas, saying such violations could harm travel opportunities for other Nigerian citizens seeking to visit the country for business, education or family reasons.
The warning comes amid tighter immigration enforcement and travel restrictions under President Donald Trump’s administration.
In a post shared on X on Sunday, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria said visa overstays by Nigerian travelers undermine access for others who comply with U.S. immigration rules.
“Visa overstay by Nigerian travelers can affect opportunities for their fellow citizens,” the mission said. “Strengthening compliance helps protect access for students, business travelers and families who travel responsibly.”
The mission also urged Nigerians to report suspected visa fraud to AbujaFPU@state.gov or LagosFPU@state.gov.
The warning follows a series of measures by the U.S. government aimed at reducing visa overstays, particularly among nationals of countries with relatively high overstay rates, including Nigeria.
As part of the crackdown, the United States partially suspended the issuance of certain visa categories to Nigerian nationals, including B-1/B-2 visitor visas, F, M and J student and exchange visitor visas, as well as some immigrant visas. The restrictions took effect on Jan. 1, 2026.
U.S. authorities cited security concerns, challenges in vetting travelers and high overstay rates as reasons for the decision. According to U.S. data, Nigeria recorded a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 5.56% and an overstay rate of 11.90% for F, M and J visas.
The restrictions apply only to Nigerian nationals who were outside the United States as of the effective date and did not already hold a valid visa. Nigerians with valid visas issued before Jan. 1, 2026, are not affected.
The U.S. Mission said improved compliance with visa conditions would help preserve travel access for law-abiding Nigerian travelers.
