The United States government has issued a stern warning to Nigerian travellers regarding the severe consequences of overstaying their visa, stressing that violators could face permanent bans from re-entering the country.
The US Mission in Nigeria posted the warning on its X account on Monday, clarifying that overstaying a visa could lead to significant penalties, including long-term or permanent bans from entering the US.
Immigration authorities have made it clear that consular officers can access an individual’s full immigration history, making it nearly impossible for violators to escape penalties for past violations. They emphasised that it is the responsibility of travellers to comply with the terms of their visa, and that ignorance of visa regulations will not be accepted as an excuse.
For those who overstay their visa for more than 180 days but less than a year, the penalty may include a three-year re-entry ban. Overstays exceeding one year may result in a 10-year ban. Repeat offenders or those committing serious violations could face a permanent lifetime ban.
This warning comes as the US has adopted stricter immigration policies under the return of President Donald Trump.
Concerns Over Deportations of Nigerians from the US
On February 16, 2025, the Nigerian government raised serious concerns regarding the deportation of its nationals from the United States, urging Washington to adhere to international conventions and ensure a dignified repatriation process.
During a meeting with US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, highlighted the emotional and financial toll that deportations are imposing on Nigerians in the US and their families back home.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu pointed out that about 201 Nigerians are currently detained in US immigration centres, with around 85 cleared for deportation. She called on the US government to adopt a more humane approach to the repatriation process, ensuring that any deportations are carried out with dignity.
She further stressed the critical role many Nigerians in the US play in supporting their families through vital remittances, which help sustain livelihoods and fund education back home.
