Nigerians overstaying in US risk travel ban, embassy warns

The United States Mission in Nigeria has warned Nigerians to strictly adhere to the terms of their visas, cautioning that violations could affect future travel.

In a statement posted on its official X account on Tuesday, the Mission explained that overstaying beyond the authorized period is a serious violation that may lead to long-term restrictions.

“It’s important to use your US visa according to its terms. Misusing it, for example, by overstaying, may affect your ability to travel to the U.S. in the future,” it stated.

The warning follows concerns about rising cases of visa misuse. According to the U.S. Department of State, more than 700,000 visa overstays were recorded in 2023, with Nigeria among the countries most affected.

Under the 1996 Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act, travellers who overstay between 180 and 365 days face a three-year re-entry ban, while those who exceed one year risk a 10-year ban.