What Is the Real Reason US Suspends Nigerian Travel Visas?

The United States suspended immigrant visas for Nigerians in 2020 mainly due to security and information-sharing concerns. The US government stated that Nigeria did not adequately meet requirements for sharing security-related information, such as data on terrorist threats, lost or stolen passports, and criminal records.

This was not a blanket ban on all travel. Nigerians could still apply for non-immigrant visas like tourist, business, and student visas. The restriction mainly targeted immigrant visas, which are pathways to permanent residency.

The US emphasized that the decision was not about Nigerian citizens themselves but about government compliance with global security standards. Later, Nigeria took steps to improve information-sharing systems and passport security, which led to discussions on lifting or easing the restrictions.