The United States government has issued a stern warning to Nigerian visa applicants, declaring a lifetime ban for those who submit false information or forged documents during their visa application process.
In a statement released on Monday, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria said the administration of President Donald Trump has intensified its crackdown on visa fraud, emphasizing zero tolerance for immigration-related deceit.
“Any Nigerian who engages in visa fraud by submitting fake documents or misleading information will be banned for life from entering the United States,” the statement read.
“We will also pursue criminal charges against those who facilitate illegal entry or harbor undocumented immigrants in the U.S.”
The policy shift is part of broader immigration reforms under Trump’s controversial Big Beautiful Bill, aimed at curbing illegal migration and enhancing border security.
In a related move, the U.S. State Department earlier this month introduced a $250 “integrity fee” for all non-immigrant visa applicants.
The fee, payable only upon approval, is refundable if visitors comply with the terms of their visa stay, although the process for refunds has yet to be clarified.
The State Department has revised visa rules for Nigerians, replacing the previously available five-year multiple-entry non-immigrant visas with a three-month single-entry visa, signaling a significant tightening of access for Nigerian travelers.
The U.S. Mission emphasized that the new measures are intended to deter visa overstays and ensure greater compliance with immigration laws.
The latest development has sparked concern among prospective Nigerian travelers, especially students, professionals, and tourists, many of whom have expressed frustration over the perceived stereotyping and blanket penalties for visa fraud.
Experts have urged the Nigerian government to strengthen its passport and identity verification systems to avoid international embarrassment and protect the integrity of its citizens abroad.
The U.S. Embassy advised Nigerian applicants to remain truthful in all documentation and warned that technological advancements have made it easier to detect fraud.
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