The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued an urgent advisory to American citizens in Nigeria, warning them to comply with the Federal Government’s new immigration rules or risk serious consequences. According to a statement on the embassy’s website, effective August 1, 2025, Nigeria will begin enforcing strict penalties on foreigners who overstay their visas, including daily fines and re-entry bans. The embassy emphasized the importance of regularizing visa status before the July 31 deadline, using the newly launched online immigration amnesty portal.
The Nigerian Ministry of Interior had earlier introduced a $15 daily surcharge for each day a visitor exceeds their visa stay, part of broader immigration reforms aimed at curbing illegal residency. Those who overstay by six months will face a five-year ban, while overstays of one year or more will attract a 10-year ban from re-entering Nigeria. The amnesty portal allows affected individuals to apply for stay permits, upload documents, and obtain clearance without physically visiting immigration offices—offering a more efficient and transparent process.
The US Embassy strongly advised all Americans with expired visas or residence permits in Nigeria to take advantage of the grace period ending July 31, 2025. Non-compliance may lead to hefty financial penalties and long-term travel restrictions. The embassy reiterated that US citizens must adhere to Nigerian immigration laws to avoid complications. This move underscores the growing global crackdown on visa overstays and the importance of maintaining valid immigration status while abroad.
