Travel conditions for Nigerian passport holders are tightening. Here’s a clear breakdown of updated rules and what it means for travelers planning trips abroad.
United States: New Limits on Non-Immigrant Visas
- Immediate change (since July 8, 2025): Most Nigerian applicants now receive single-entry non-immigrant visas, valid for just three months, instead of the previous multi-year permits. Previously issued long-term visas remain valid until their expiry.
- Added costs: A Visa Integrity Fee of $250 now applies on top of the regular fee, increasing total cost to around $435 for categories like B1/B2, F (students), J (exchange), and H-1B (workers). Refunds are only possible if visa terms are honored fully.
- Diplomatic response: Nigeria’s House of Representatives formally urged the U.S. to reverse the changes. Nigerian officials stated the shifts are not politically motivated—citing global security reviews aimed at strengthening immigration systems.
- Compliance reminder: The Nigeria Immigration Service advised visa holders to strictly honor travel terms—non-compliance, like overstays, could lead to visa cancellation or being barred from future applications.
United Kingdom: Digital eVisas for Students & Workers + ETA for Travelers
- Digital eVisas (from July 15, 2025): Nigerian applicants for UK study and work visas will receive digital eVisas—viewable online via UKVI accounts. Biometric submission is still required at Visa Application Centres. Other categories, like tourist visas, still receive physical vignette stickers.
- ETA rollout for visa-exempt travelers: Starting April 2025, visa-exempt visitors (e.g., from GCC countries) need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)—valid up to six months, costs £16 and applies even for short visits.
- Upcoming policy risk: A forthcoming UK Immigration White Paper indicates possible new visa restrictions targeting nationalities—like Nigerians—deemed high-risk for overstaying.
Canada: Raised Financial Threshold for Express Entry
- Higher proof-of-funds requirement (from July 7, 2025): Canadian Express Entry applicants must now show CAD 15,263 (approx ₦17 million) minimum funds for a single applicant—a rise from the previous CAD 14,690. Proof must come via official bank letters on institutional letterhead.
United Arab Emirates (UAE): Tightened Entry for Nigerians
- Tourist visa ban for solo younger travelers: Nigerian applicants aged 18–45 are now ineligible for tourist visas unless traveling with family or in a group.
- For those 45+ years: Must provide a 6-month personal bank statement showing a minimum $10,000 balance.
- Transit visas are banned entirely for Nigerians.
At a Glance: Key Changes Table
| Country | Key Changes for Nigerians | Action Items |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. | 3-month single-entry visas + $250 extra fee | Plan shorter trips, budget higher, travel wisely |
| UK | Digital eVisas for study/work + ETA for visitors | Apply online early; monitor ETA rollout |
| Canada | Increased fund requirements for Express Entry | Ensure sufficient savings in compliant format |
| UAE | Limits on tourist & transit visas, new financial proof | Consider travel partners & financial prep |
Why This Matters
These countries are adopting protective immigration measures—driven by security, documentation, and overstay concerns—making travel more controlled and demand clearer compliance.
Final Thought
Stay informed, prepared, and strategic. These policy shifts affect Nigerians across tourism, education, business, and family travel. Need help with visa planning or travel document prep? Penzazo Travels is here to guide you through it.
