FG opens talks with US over visa restrictions

The Federal Government has begun diplomatic discussions with the United States over its recently revised visa policy targeting Nigerian travellers.

The policy, which limits non-immigrant visas such as B1/B2, F, and J categories to three months single-entry permits, marks a sharp departure from the previous five-year multiple-entry visa arrangement enjoyed by Nigerians.

According to the US Embassy in Nigeria, the decision was made on the grounds of reciprocity, but it added that those with valid existing visas could continue to use them until expiration.

Reacting to the development, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its spokesman, Kimiebi Ebienfa, expressed concern and urged the US government to reverse the decision in the spirit of mutual respect, fairness, and the longstanding cordial relations between both nations.

The ministry stressed that the policy places an unfair burden on legitimate travellers, students, businesspeople, and families.

While acknowledging America’s right to enforce its immigration laws, the government called for a reconsideration, noting that discussions were ongoing to resolve the matter diplomatically.

In a related development, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has also revised its visa policy, limiting Nigerian tourist visa applicants to those between 18 and 45 years old.

Applicants above 45 must now present a six-month personal bank statement reflecting a monthly balance of at least $10,000 or its naira equivalent before qualifying for a tourist visa.

The policy was communicated to travel agencies, marking the latest adjustment since the UAE lifted its two-year visa ban on Nigerians last year.

Similarly, the United Kingdom announced it will commence the issuance of digital e-Visas for Nigerian applicants seeking study and work permits from July 15, 2025.

According to a statement from the British High Commission, the new system replaces the traditional visa vignette or sticker with a secure online visa accessible through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.

Applicants will still need to visit Visa Application Centres for biometric capturing, but will retain their passports if no vignette is required.

The British High Commission said the move was a major step towards a fully digital UK immigration system, making it faster, safer, and more convenient for applicants.

While this transition currently applies only to study and work visas, dependents and visitor visa applicants will still receive physical visa stickers for now.

As these international visa policy changes unfold, Nigerian authorities are actively engaging foreign governments to ease travel conditions for citizens and maintain balanced bilateral relations.