The United States Embassy in Nigeria has reassured Nigerians that visas issued before January 1, 2026, will remain valid despite new travel restrictions announced by the US government.
Nigeria was listed among 15 countries—mostly in Africa—placed on partial travel suspension by the United States on December 16. Other affected countries include Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Dominica, Gabon and The Gambia.
According to the US government, the decision was based on security concerns, including the activities of terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State, as well as visa overstay rates. It cited overstay rates of 5.56 percent for B-1/B-2 visas and 11.90 percent for F, M and J visas for Nigeria.
The restrictions, which take effect from January 1, 2026, affect both immigrant and non-immigrant visa categories, including B, F, M and J visas commonly used by Nigerians.
In a statement issued on Monday, the US Embassy clarified that the proclamation applies only to foreign nationals who are outside the United States on the effective date and who do not hold valid visas. It stressed that visas issued before 12:01 a.m. EST on January 1, 2026, have not been and will not be revoked.
The embassy added that the policy does not apply to lawful permanent residents, holders of certain special immigrant visas, dual nationals travelling on non-restricted passports, or participants in major international sporting events. It also noted that visa applicants may continue to apply and attend interviews, although some may be deemed ineligible for visa issuance or entry.
