Nigerian Students Hit by New 3-Month, Single-Entry US Visa Rule
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Nigeria is among 26 countries affected by a recent US State Department decision to reduce the validity and entry conditions of nonimmigrant visas, including those for students. As a result, Nigerian students heading to the United States will now only be granted single-entry visas valid for three months.
The new rule, which applies to international students from nations across Africa, Asia, and Oceania, has raised alarms among stakeholders and education consultants in Nigeria. The policy means that if a student leaves the US, even briefly they must reapply for a visa to return, facing additional costs and delays.
The change, made under Executive Order 14161, is intended to reflect the principle of reciprocity, though Nigerian and Ghanaian officials have strongly disputed this. Nigeria, for example, currently issues five-year, multiple-entry visas to US citizens, according to a government spokesperson.
Bimpe Femi-Oyewo, CEO of Edward Consulting in Nigeria, called the policy “simply not practical” for students enrolled in two- or four-year degree programmes. She warned it could hinder participation in study abroad programmes, research conferences, and internships, vital components of higher education in the US.
Aaron Blumberg, immigration partner at Fragomen, clarified that students can remain in the US legally even after their visa expires, provided they maintain full-time enrolment. However, the timing of initial visa applications has now become critical. Applying too early could result in visa expiry before arrival, while applying late risks missing programme start dates.
The move comes amid ongoing visa delays, enhanced security screenings, and a significant visa appointment backlog in Nigeria. The US embassy in Abuja has acknowledged the change but stated that previously issued visas remain valid until their expiry.
Despite the new hurdles, Femi-Oyewo believes Nigerian students will remain undeterred. “The US is still viewed as a land of opportunity,” she said.
In 2023/24, Nigeria sent over 20,000 students to the US, ranking seventh globally. However, with reduced visa durations and tougher conditions, this trend could face a sharp decline in the upcoming academic year.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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