The United States has implemented sweeping changes to its visa issuance policies for Nigerian nationals, but has clarified that nonimmigrant travel for business and tourism (B1/B2) remains possible for those who meet the new criteria. Under updated guidelines effective January 21, 2026, the US Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria introduced strict entry restrictions while outlining clear steps for eligible citizens to still travel to America.
Financial Bond Requirement for B1/B2 Visas
Nigerian nationals who successfully pass their B1/B2 visa interviews are now required to post a financial bond. The bond can cost up to $15,000 (approximately N20.6 million at current official exchange rates). However, the US Embassy has strongly warned applicants not to pay any bond before being instructed to do so by a consular officer, and cautioned against using any third-party websites to post the bond. B1/B2 visas will not be issued until this bond is paid.
Social Media Profile Requirements
The US government has introduced strict digital requirements for specific nonimmigrant and immigrant categories. Applicants for student visas (F, M), exchange visitor visas (J), work visas (H1-B, H-3, H-4), fiancé visas (K-1, K-2), and other specific categories are instructed to adjust the privacy settings on all their social media accounts to "public" or "open." This is to allow US consular officers to review their online presence as part of the vetting process.
Broader Visa Restrictions
In a related development, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a new global visa restriction policy targeting cybercrime offenders under a specific section of the Immigration and Nationality Act. According to the US government, the new policy came after online investment scams, many linked to Chinese criminal organisations, cost Americans at least $10 billion in 2024 alone. Immigrant visas and diversity visas remain paused for Nigerian nationals under the current policies.
