ABUJA, NIGERIA — United States Ambassador Richard Mills has clarified the rationale behind the upcoming US visa restrictions Nigeria 2026 policy. During a press briefing in Abuja on Sunday, December 21, 2025, the envoy explained that these measures prioritize global security protocols over any intent to penalize Nigerian citizens.
The new presidential proclamation will take effect on January 1, 2026. Specifically, it targets deficiencies in information-sharing and identity verification. Ambassador Mills spoke alongside a U.S. Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to reassure the public that the U.S. remains open to legitimate travelers. However, he emphasized that the new system requires more rigorous background checks to protect international borders.
“The proclamation is aimed at ensuring proper vetting and credible information in the visa process, not on penalizing Nigerians,” Mills stated. Consequently, the U.S. government expects all applicants to comply fully with the updated immigration laws.
Ambassador Mills clarified that the US visa restrictions Nigeria 2026 policy aims to strengthen security procedures.
Why the U.S. Imposed New Restrictions on Nigeria
U.S. officials cited specific security and compliance data as the primary reasons for the policy shift. Notably, reports indicate that Nigeria has a 5.56% overstay rate for B-1/B-2 visitor visas. Furthermore, the overstay rate for student and exchange visas (F, M, and J) reached 11.90%.
In addition to overstay concerns, the U.S. government highlighted challenges such as:
- Identity Verification: The need for reliable access to criminal records.
- Insurgency Impacts: Difficulties in conducting background checks in regions affected by Boko Haram.
- Document Integrity: The requirement for more secure travel documents.
U.S. Congressman Bill Huizenga added that these reviews are routine procedures. Indeed, similar restrictions apply to 39 other countries globally. He noted that the measures focus on improving government systems rather than targeting individual citizens.
Affected Categories and Critical Exemptions
The US visa restrictions Nigeria 2026 policy is “partial,” meaning it only suspends specific visa types. Importantly, many categories remain open to applicants.
Affected Visa Categories:
- B-1/B-2 Visas: Business and tourism.
- F and M Visas: Academic and vocational studies.
- J Visas: Exchange programs.
- Immigrant Visas: Most categories, including Green Cards, face suspension.
Exemptions from the Restrictions:
- Official and Diplomatic Passports: Holders are unaffected.
- Religious Purposes: Individuals traveling for religious work.
- Current Visa Holders: Any visa issued before January 1, 2026, remains valid.
- Lawful Permanent Residents: Green card holders may still travel freely.
Ultimately, the Ambassador encouraged applicants to consult the official U.S. Embassy website for comprehensive details. By following these designated communication channels, Nigerians can ensure they receive the most accurate guidance for their travel plans.
