U.S. Clarifies Nigerians’ Stay Duration Depends On Border Officials, Not Visa Expiry
The United States Mission in Nigeria has clarified that the length of time international visitors, including Nigerians, are allowed to stay in the U.S. is not determined by the visa expiration date but by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry.
In a statement posted on its official X account on Friday, the Mission said, “Reminder! The length of time an international visitor is allowed to stay in the United States is determined by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer upon your arrival, NOT your visa expiration date.”
It explained that a U.S. visa simply allows a traveller to approach a U.S. port of entry and request permission to enter.
The final decision on the duration of stay is made by the CBP officer.
“A U.S. visa allows you travel to a U.S. port of entry and request permission to enter. How long you are allowed to stay in the United States is not your visa’s expiration date,” the post read.
Travellers were advised to check their “admit until date” online using their I-94 form to confirm how long they are permitted to remain in the country.
This clarification comes amid recent policy changes by the U.S. government.
On July 8, 2025, new visa rules took effect, limiting the validity of most non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerians to just three months and single entry.
The new rule applies only to visas issued from that date onward. Existing valid visas issued before July 8 remain unaffected and retain their original validity and terms.
The U.S. authorities stressed the need for full compliance with immigration laws to avoid penalties or travel restrictions in the future.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
