The United States Embassy in Nigeria says the recent cancellation of visas for some Nigerians is part of wider security checks covering more than 55 million foreigners with valid US visas.
The embassy explained that visas can be revoked if holders overstay, break US laws, or pose security risks. It stressed that this power has long existed under US immigration law, but is now being enforced more strictly.
Concerns grew after reports of sudden cancellations without explanation, but the embassy maintained the revocations are meant to protect national security.
In July 2025, the US also reduced most Nigerian non-immigrant visas to three-month, single-entry permits, and in August introduced a rule requiring applicants to submit a five-year record of social media use.
The embassy has advised Nigerians to obey visa terms to avoid travel bans of up to 10 years. In 2023, more than 700,000 foreigners overstayed their visas, with Nigeria among the top countries affected.