FAQs – US Visa Restriction Update for Nigerians
Presidential Proclamation on Visa Restrictions
FAQs: Understanding the New U.S. Partial Travel Restriction on Nigerians
1. What exactly is the new U.S. partial travel restriction on Nigerians?
The U.S. has suspended entry for Nigerians applying for certain visa categories, citing security concerns and high visa overstay rates.
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2. Which visa categories are affected?
According to the U.S. proclamation, Nigerians are now barred from entering the U.S. on the following visas:
• B 1 (Business)
• B 2 (Tourism)
• B 1/B 2 (Business/Tourism)
• F (Academic studies)
• M (Vocational studies)
• J (Exchange programs)
• All immigrant visas (Green card applicants)
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3. Is this a full travel ban?
No. It is not a full ban. It is a partial restriction. Some Nigerians can still travel under specific exemptions.
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4. Who is exempt from the restriction?
The proclamation lists several exemptions, including:
• Lawful permanent residents (Green card holders)
• People with valid visas issued before the effective date
• Diplomats
• Athletes for major events
• Certain special immigrant visa categories
• Individuals whose entry serves U.S. national interests
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5. Are existing valid visas cancelled?
No. The restriction applies only to people outside the U.S. who do not already have a valid visa on the effective date. If you already hold a valid visa, you may still travel.
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6. Why did the U.S. impose this restriction?
a. Security and vetting challenges
The U.S. says extremist groups like Boko Haram and ISIS operate in parts of Nigeria, making background checks difficult.
b. High visa overstays rates: Nigeria recorded:
• 5.56% overstay rate for B 1/B 2 visas
• 11.90% overstay rate for F, M, and J visas
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7. Does this affect Nigerians already in the U.S.?
No. Nigerians already in the U.S. on valid visas or status are not affected.
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8. Can Nigerians still apply for other visa types?
Yes, but with restrictions. The U.S. has instructed consular officers to reduce the validity period of other non immigrant visas issued to Nigerians “to the extent permitted by law”. This means approvals may be shorter or more limited.
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9. When does the restriction take effect?
The proclamation states the new restrictions take effect January 1,2026 and apply only to those outside the U.S. without a valid visa on that date.
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10. Can Nigerians apply for waivers?
Yes. Case by case waivers remain possible, especially for humanitarian, national interest, or urgent travel needs.
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11. Does this affect family based immigration?
Yes. Family based immigrant visas are suspended for Nigerians.
The U.S. also narrowed previous exemptions due to concerns about fraud risks in family based applications.
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12. Is this permanent?
Not necessarily. The U.S. says the restrictions are meant to push countries to improve security cooperation, information sharing, and reduce overstay rates. Nigeria could be removed if it meets the requirements.
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13. What should Nigerians with upcoming travel plans do?
• Check your visa status
• Confirm whether your category is affected
• Contact the U.S. Embassy or a qualified immigration attorney
• Avoid making non refundable travel plans until you have clarity