The United States government, under President Donald Trump, has taken a significant step that directly impacts Nigerian citizens seeking to travel to America. On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, a new presidential proclamation was signed, placing Nigeria on an expanded list of countries facing partial travel restrictions.
Immediate Suspension of Key Visa Categories
The first and most sweeping consequence is a broad suspension of entry for Nigerian nationals applying for immigrant visas. Furthermore, the suspension extends to several key nonimmigrant visa categories, effectively blocking major pathways to the US.
These suspended categories include B-1 (business), B-2 (tourist), B-1/B-2 (combined business/tourist), F (academic student), M (vocational student), and J (exchange visitor) visas. This action halts new applications for business travel, tourism, and student or exchange programs from Nigeria.
American authorities justified this move by citing persistent challenges in security screening and vetting procedures for Nigerian applicants. The administration pointed to security concerns linked to extremist groups in parts of the country, which they argue complicate background checks. Additionally, visa compliance records played a role. US data revealed Nigeria had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 5.56 percent. The rate was even higher for education-related visas, with F, M, and J categories posting an overstay rate of 11.90 percent.
Shortened Validity for Remaining Nonimmigrant Visas
The second major consequence affects Nigerians who may still qualify for nonimmigrant visas outside the suspended categories. Under the new rules, US consular officers have been directed to reduce the validity period of any other nonimmigrant visas issued to Nigerian nationals, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
This policy shift means that eligible Nigerian travelers will receive visas with shorter durations, necessitating more frequent and costly renewal applications. It adds a layer of administrative burden and uncertainty for those pursuing travel for purposes not covered by the blanket suspension.
Context and Exemptions
Nigeria was named among 15 countries newly subjected to these partial restrictions, joining others like Angola, Benin, Senegal, Zambia, and Tanzania. The White House stated the policy targets nations assessed as having severe deficiencies in information sharing and vetting procedures that could pose risks to US public safety.
It is important to note that the proclamation includes specific exemptions. The restrictions do not apply to lawful permanent residents (green card holders), existing visa holders, diplomats, athletes, or individuals whose entry is deemed to serve US national interests. However, some family-based immigration allowances were narrowed under the updated rules.
This latest action aligns with the Trump administration's broader immigration agenda. Earlier in 2025, similar visa bans were announced affecting 12 countries, with restrictions imposed on seven others. The move underscores a continued focus on stringent entry controls based on security and compliance assessments.
