The Federal Government of Nigeria has directed the full implementation of a new visa reciprocity policy for citizens of the United States of America with effect from 1st March 2023.
The Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, gave the directive following the approval for the implementation of the new Bilateral Consular Policy Agreements between the governments of Nigeria and the United States of America.
According to a statement on Friday by Aregbesola’s media aide, Sola Fasure, the agreements amongst others include the reciprocity of five-year tourist visa validity for American citizens pursuant to Section 30 of the Immigration Act, 2015; and extension of visa validity to three years for diplomats and government officials between the citizens of Nigeria and the United States of America.
“Consequently, the Minister of Interior has directed the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, to start the implementation of the policy from 1st March 2023,” the statement said in part.
President Muhammadu Buhari had launched the new Nigeria Visa Policy (NPV) in 2020, which amongst other things promotes tourism.
Tourist Visa falls under the Short Visit Visa (F5A) category. This policy is in line with Buhari’s desire to boost cultural exchange and business between both nations.
As part of the Bilateral Agreement, the United States of America will implement a similar policy for Nigerians wishing to travel on Tourist Visas to the United States and for our diplomats and officials visiting the country. The United State will thus extend Tourist Visa Validity for Nigerian citizens to five years.
Story: Christy Dung