US Clarifies That Visa Restriction Order Will Not Affect Nigerian Students

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has announced that Nigerian students holding valid F1 and J1 visas are safe from the recent visa restriction order.

The US government issued the travel restriction on December 16, 2025. The policy, known as Presidential Proclamation 10998, took effect on January 1, 2026. It placed entry limits on citizens of 15 countries, which include Nigeria.

American authorities stated that they created the order because of concerns about security screening, information sharing, and high rates of visa overstays.

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For Nigeria, the US government pointed out the operation of terrorist groups like Boko Haram and the Islamic State in some regions. Officials said these security issues make it difficult to properly screen and vet travelers.

The general travel suspension affects many immigrant and non-immigrant visas. These include the B-1, B-2, F, M, and J visa categories that Nigerians commonly use.

However, the US embassy released a statement on Monday to clear the air regarding the status of students.

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The embassy confirmed that the travel ban does not apply to Nigerian students and exchange participants who already possess valid F1 and J1 visas.

“Students and exchange participants with visas can continue to contribute to learning, research, and innovation at U.S. colleges and institutions,” the embassy stated.

According to the US Department of Homeland Security, the F1 and J1 are the main non-immigrant visas for international students and exchange participants.

The F1 visa allows individuals to engage in full-time academic studies. On the other hand, the J1 visa supports approved cultural and educational exchange programs sponsored by the US Department of State.