- The NIS cautioned against birth tourism, stating that US consular officers will reject applications suspected of such motives.
- The Immigration Service stressed that security screening by US authorities continues after a traveller’s initial entry into the country.
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has urged citizens to comply strictly with the terms of their visas when travelling to the United States.
The advisory, issued on Thursday, comes amid rising concerns by the US authorities over the misuse of visas by Nigerian travellers.
The statement was signed by the NIS spokesperson, AS Akinlabi.
Akinlabi said any violation of immigration or other US laws could result in visa revocation or deportation.
“Applicants are reminded that security screening by U.S. authorities continues beyond initial entry,” the statement said.
The NIS warned that breaching visa conditions, such as overstaying, could attract serious penalties, including removal from the US and permanent ineligibility for future travel.
The advisory specifically mentioned Nigerian students and tourists as groups that must pay special attention to compliance.
“Nigerian students in the U.S. must remain in active study. Withdrawal, absenteeism, or change of academic programme without notification may lead to visa cancellation and loss of future eligibility,” the statement said.
On birth tourism, the NIS said US consular officers will deny tourist visa applications if they suspect the primary purpose is to give birth in America.
“U.S. consular officers will deny tourist visa applications if they believe the primary purpose of travel is to give birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for the child,” the statement said.
The Immigration Service pledged to continue working with the US mission in Abuja to ensure that Nigerians adhere to visa regulations.
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