US warns Nigerians on visa overstay consequences, travel ban looms

US warns Nigerians against visa overstays, citing deportation and permanent travel bans under tough new rules, including integrity fees and social media checks

The United States has issued a stern warning to Nigerians over overstaying their visas, stating that violators risk deportation and a permanent travel ban.

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Speaking on Monday, 14 July, the Head of US Mission in Nigeria, Richard M. Mills, confirmed that this policy aligns with recent visa restrictions implemented under President Donald Trump’s administration.

“If you remain in the US beyond your authorised period of stay, you could be deported and could face a permanent ban on travelling to the US in the future,” Mills warned.

The US has also revised its visa reciprocity policy for Nigerian citizens, limiting non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas to three months and a single entry.

The US cited visa overstays, document falsification, and national security concerns as key reasons.

A new \$250 integrity fee now applies to student, worker, and tourist visas. This is in addition to non-waivable charges, including a \$24 I-94 fee and a \$13 ESTA fee for travellers under the Visa Waiver Program.

These changes affect B-1/B-2, F, M, H-1B, and J visa categories. Only diplomatic visas in categories A and G are exempt.

Applicants must also submit all social media usernames and disable privacy settings for vetting. Mills said this measure is part of “a significantly stringent screening process” ordered by President Trump to enhance national security.

Trump’s administration continues to prioritise immigration control, focusing on removing undocumented individuals and scrutinising current residents for ties to foreign threats.

Also read: UK digital visa policy begins 15 July for Nigerian students, workers

These new rules mark a tougher era for Nigerians seeking entry into the United States.

Quadri Olaitan