NIS cautions Nigerians on use of U.S. visas
The Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap
NIS cautions Nigerians on use of U.S. visas
Following the path of recent similar warning by the National Orientation Agency, NOA, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) on Saturday also advised Nigerians to use their U.S. visas in strict compliance with the stated purpose of their application.
NIS Public Relations Officer,(SPR0), Akinsola Akinlabi, said this in an advisory issued on Saturday Nigerians.
He said the advisory was issued following concerns raised by the U.S. Government over the misuse of visas by some Nigerian citizens.
NIS therefore advised Nigerians holding U.S. visas to adhere to the terms and conditions under which the visas were granted.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service wishes to inform the general public of concerns raised by the United States Government regarding the misuse of U.S. visas by Nigerians.
“All visa holders are advised to strictly adhere to the purpose stated in their visa applications
“U.S. authorities conduct security screening beyond the initial point of entry into the country. Any breach of immigration or other laws can lead to visa revocation or deportation.
“Breach of visa conditions, including overstaying, may attract severe penalties, including removal from the U.S. and permanent ineligibility for future travel,” he said.
According to him, the U.S. remains committed to maintaining a secure and transparent visa process and expects all visa holders to comply fully with its immigration regulations.
He also advised Nigerian students in the U.S. to remain in active study programmes and refrain from unauthorised withdrawal or absenteeism.
He noted that such actions could result in visa cancellation and the loss of future eligibility for U.S. travel.
The NIS warned that the U.S. consular officers reserve the right to deny tourist visas to applicants suspected of intending to travel for the purpose of giving birth, in a bid to secure U.S. citizenship for their children.
“The NIS will continue to collaborate with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure Nigeria is not included in any expanded visa restrictions,” he said.
“We are calling on all Nigerian citizens to comply with U.S. visa rules as such conduct is essential to safeguarding legitimate travel opportunities.
NOA had in a statement issued on Thursday, July 31, 2025 also advised Nigerians travelling abroad, especially to the U.S., to act responsibly in using their visas.
NOA Director-General, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, gave the advice in a statement issued by the agency’s Director of Communications and Media, Mr Bala Musa, on Thursday in Abuja.
The NOA boss urged Nigerians to refrain from misusing U.S. visas and avoid engaging in activities beyond the purpose or classification of their travel documents.
He said visa security vetting does not end at the point of entry into the United States and that monitoring continues after arrival.
“U.S. authorities constantly monitor visa holders. Visas can be revoked, and individuals deported, for breaking immigration rules or any U.S. law,” he stated.
He reminded Nigerians travelling to the U.S. to declare all excess cash above permitted limits and avoid packing contraband items in their luggage.
The NOA boss warned that overstaying or violating visa conditions could lead to deportation or a lifetime ban from entering the U.S.
“Such actions could also affect chances for other Nigerians with genuine reasons for travel,” he added.
Issa-Onilu advised Nigerian students in the U.S. to take timely steps to regularise their visa status before expiry.
He further noted that Nigerians applying for tourist visas to give birth in the U.S. for citizenship purposes would likely face rejection.
“The United States applies strict screening to prevent security threats while supporting lawful travel under a fair and transparent visa process,” he said.
NAN
