By Kogi News Tribune | July 12, 2025
The United States has introduced new visa restrictions affecting four African nations, reducing the validity of most non-immigrant visas to just three months with single-entry terms.
In a statement issued by the U.S. Department of State, the new directive applies to Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, and Ethiopia. Previously, non-diplomatic visas granted to citizens of these countries often allowed multiple entries over extended periods—sometimes lasting two years or more. The new policy marks a significant departure from past arrangements.
Technical Review Behind Policy Shift
The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, in a statement on Thursday, clarified that the decision is not politically motivated and does not reflect Washington’s position on any of the affected countries’ domestic or foreign policies.
The embassy emphasized that the change was part of a broader technical and security review process and not in response to Nigeria’s handling of deportees, its recent adoption of e-visa systems, or its affiliation with the BRICS economic bloc.
Nigeria’s Concerns
The announcement has raised concerns in Nigeria, which remains Africa’s leading source of international students in the United States, according to the 2024 Open Doors report. Observers warn that the new visa restrictions may negatively impact educational, cultural, and business exchanges between Nigeria and the U.S.
The policy will primarily affect applicants seeking non-immigrant visas for tourism, business, and short-term educational visits.
Affected Countries:
Nigeria
Ghana
Cameroon
Ethiopia
The U.S. government has not disclosed how long the policy will remain in effect but maintains that the decision was made in accordance with visa reciprocity standards and national security considerations.
The development comes as Washington continues to review global visa policies with a focus on security and fraud prevention.
