In a major shift, the United States Government has officially begun issuing three-month, single-entry visas to most Nigerian applicants, tightening its visa policy in reciprocity to Nigeria’s short-term visa rules for U.S. citizens. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

The new visa policy takes effect today, July 8, 2025, and affects most non-immigrant, non-diplomatic categories, including tourist (B1/B2) and business visas.

🔁 Visa Reciprocity Enforcement

According to a statement issued by the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, this policy aligns with the U.S. Department of State’s global visa reciprocity standards:

“Effective immediately, most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to citizens of Nigeria will be single-entry visas with a three-month validity period.”

“Those U.S. non-immigrant visas issued prior to July 8, 2025, will retain their status and validity,” the statement clarified.

The U.S. further emphasized that visa reciprocity is a continuous process and may be adjusted at any time—including changes in number of entries, duration, or visa class.

🧐 Link to BRICS Speculation?

While the embassy has not linked the change to any diplomatic dispute, online speculation is rife that this may be connected to President Bola Tinubu’s recent BRICS-related engagements, as Nigeria seeks deeper alliances with non-Western powers.

Analysts argue that the U.S. may be signaling diplomatic pressure as Nigeria explores economic and strategic partnerships outside of traditional Western spheres.

📌 What This Means for Nigerians

• New visa applicants will now receive 3-month, single-entry visas unless applying under a diplomatic or special category

• Visas issued before July 8, 2025, will not be affected

• Multiple-entry, long-term visas are now restricted, impacting frequent travelers

🇳🇬 Background

Nigeria has historically issued short-term entry visas to American citizens. Under the principle of reciprocity, the U.S. has now aligned its own policy accordingly.

Travelers are urged to plan accordingly, especially for business trips, family visits, and tourism.