The Federal Government has expressed concern over the United States’ recent decision to impose stricter visa restrictions on Nigerian citizens.
The new policy limits non-immigrant visas to single-entry, three-month validity, affecting B1/B2, F, and J visa categories.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa in statement, said that the policy places a disproportionate burden on Nigerian travelers, students, professionals, and families, potentially disrupting educational and cultural exchanges between the two countries.
To the FG the restrictions will significantly impact Nigerian travelers, students, and professionals, making it difficult for them to engage in legitimate business, academic pursuits, and cultural exchanges.
The Nigerian Government also holds the view that the US decision appears misaligned with principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect guiding bilateral engagements between friendly nations.
The attention of the federal government of Nigeria has been drawn to the recent decision by the United States Government to revise its visa reciprocity schedule for Nigerian citizens, limiting the validity of non-immigrant visas including B1/B2, F and J categories, to three months with single entry.“The federal government views this development with concern and keen interest, particularly given the longstanding cordial relations and strong people-to-people ties between our two countries.
The decision appears misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect that should guide bilateral engagements between friendly nations.
Nigeria notes that this restriction places a disproportionate burden on Nigerian travellers, students seeking academic opportunities, professionals engaging in legitimate business, families visiting loved ones and individuals contributing to cultural and educational exchanges.
While acknowledging the sovereign right of every country to determine its immigration policies, Nigeria respectfully urges the United States to reconsider this decision in the spirit of partnership, cooperation, and shared global responsibilities, the statement by Ebienfa said.
However, the statement added: “Diplomatic engagements are ongoing, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains committed to pursuing a resolution that reflects fairness and upholds the values of mutual interest.
Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates has also introduced stricter visa rules for Nigerian travelers. According to the new policy, Nigerian nationals are no longer eligible for transit visas, that is they are barred from stopovers in the UAE.
The new rules also say Nigerian visa applicants above 45 years must present a personal bank statement showing a minimum monthly balance of $10,000 or its naira equivalent.
Under the new policy all Nigerian travellers to the UAE must show proof of hotel reservations and sufficient funds (5,000 dirhams) to cover their stay.
