The United States has issued a strict warning to Nigerian travellers, stating that overstaying a visa could result in a permanent ban from re-entering the country.
The US Mission in Nigeria posted the advisory on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, cautioning travellers to strictly adhere to their visa terms.
“If you overstay your US visa, you could face a permanent ban on travelling to the United States. Consular officers have full access to your immigration history and will know about past violations. There is no such thing as an ‘honest mistake’ – it is your responsibility to use your visa correctly,” the statement read.
According to US immigration laws, individuals who overstay their visa for more than 180 days but less than a year may face a three-year ban, while those who exceed one year risk a 10-year ban. Repeat offenders or individuals with severe violations may be permanently barred from entering the US.
This warning comes amid increasing immigration restrictions under President Donald Trump’s new administration. The Nigerian government has also expressed concerns over the deportation of its citizens from the US, urging Washington to ensure a dignified repatriation process.
During a meeting with US Ambassador Richard Mills Jr. on February 16, 2025, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, revealed that 201 Nigerians were being held in US immigration detention centers, with 85 already cleared for deportation.
“With the new US administration in place, we expect commitments to ensure that, if repatriation occurs, it will be done with dignity,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated.
She also highlighted the economic impact of these deportations, noting that many Nigerians in the US provide financial support to their families back home. She called for a more humane approach, particularly for those without violent criminal records.
The Nigerian government continues to engage with US authorities in hopes of finding a more balanced approach to immigration enforcement.
