The issue of US Embassy Nigeria visa cancellations has become a major concern. According to Business Insider Africa, many Nigerians have had their valid U.S. visas revoked without clear explanation, while new rules have made it harder to get and keep a visa. These changes affect students, business people, families, and government officials & here is everything we know so far.
“New information” leads to US Embassy Nigeria visa cancellations
Recently, Nigerians holding valid U.S. visas have received letters from the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and Lagos. The letters asked them to bring in their passports. When they did, they found their visas had been canceled.
The embassy explained that the cancellations were based on Section 41.122 of Title 22 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This law allows U.S. authorities to revoke a visa if new information shows that the person may no longer qualify.
However, most applicants were not told what this “new information” was, and there is usually no way to appeal. This has created stress and disappointment for many Nigerians whose plans—such as studying, working, or attending conferences—have been suddenly disrupted.
New US visa restrictions for Nigerians
Apart from cancellations, new US visa rules have been introduced:
Shorter validity: Since July 2025, Nigerians applying for non-immigrant visas only get single-entry visas valid for three months. In the past, visas could last up to five years and allow multiple entries.
Reason given by the embassy: Officials said the change was due to a global technical and security review, not politics or Nigeria’s refusal to accept deportees.
The House of Representatives has strongly opposed the decision. Lawmakers said the new rules will hurt students, families, and businesses, and they called on the U.S. to reverse the policy.
What can Nigerians do?
If you are affected by US Embassy Nigeria visa cancellations, here are some steps to consider:
Reapply if possible: Some may choose to apply again, although approval is not guaranteed.
Stay updated: Follow the latest US visa news.
Seek advice: Immigration lawyers or consultants may help explain options.
Nigerian lawmakers are already urging the U.S. to restore longer visa validity and stop sudden cancellations. However, the wave of US Embassy Nigeria visa cancellations and the new three-month visa limit have made U.S. travel much harder for Nigerians in 2025.
What’s changing with U.S. visas in 2025?
Starting in 2025, applying for a U.S. nonimmigrant visa is getting more demanding:
Rule / Change | Who it affects | What it means |
|---|---|---|
In-person interviews | Almost all nonimmigrant visa applicants | You must attend an interview; exemptions and drop-box renewals mostly removed. |
$250 Visa Integrity Fee | Tourists, students, workers, exchange visas | Added on top of existing fees; may be partly refunded if all visa rules are obeyed. |
Social media disclosure | F-1, M-1, J-1 applicants (students/exchange) | Must list usernames from past 5 years and make accounts public during processing. |
Visa bond ($5k–$15k) | Applicants from certain countries | Must pay a refundable bond; refunded only if visa rules are followed. |
Being well-prepared will help avoid unexpected setbacks.
