US mission in Nigeria moves to clarify visa validity reduction

The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has moved to clarify the recent reduction in the validity period for most nonimmigrant U.S. visas issued in Nigeria, seeking to address widespread misconceptions circulating among the public.

In a statement shared via it’s official X handle, the U.S. Mission categorically stated that the policy change is not a consequence of Nigeria’s stance on third-country deportees, the introduction of e-visa policies by Nigeria, or any perceived affiliations with international groups like BRICS.

Instead, the Mission emphasised that the reduction in visa validity is part of an “ongoing global review of the use of U.S. visas by other countries.”

This review, they explained, employs “technical and security benchmarks to safeguard U.S. immigration systems.”

The U.S. Mission in Nigeria’s statement reads:

“The U.S. Mission Nigeria wishes to address misconceptions about the recent reduction in visa validity for most nonimmigrant U.S. visas in Nigeria and other countries.

“This reduction is not the result of any nation’s stance on third-country deportees, introduction of e-visa policies, or affiliations with groups like BRICS. The reduction in validity is part of an ongoing global review of the use of U.S. visas by other countries using technical and security benchmarks to safeguard U.S. immigration systems.

“We value our longstanding partnership with Nigeria and remain committed to working closely with the Nigerian public and government officials to help them meet those criteria and benchmarks, thereby ensuring safe, lawful, and mutually beneficial travel between our nations.” [CONTINUE READING HERE]>>>>