The United States Mission in Nigeria has reinforced its strict zero-tolerance stance toward non-citizens who break U.S. laws, cautioning that offenders—regardless of their purpose of travel—risk severe immigration penalties.
In an advisory posted Monday on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, @USinNigeria, the Mission reminded travellers that arrest in the United States can result in immediate consequences such as visa refusal, visa cancellation, deportation, and permanent ineligibility for future U.S. visas.
The statement, tagged with the hashtags #VisaWiseTravelSmart and #USVisa, is particularly timely as thousands of Nigerians, including a large number of students, prepare to depart for the United States for the September academic intake.
“If you are arrested, your U.S. visa may be revoked, you may be deported, and you could be ineligible for future U.S. visas,” the Mission stressed, adding that the policy applies equally to students and other categories of visa holders.
U.S. authorities also reiterated that holding a visa does not grant unrestricted stay, emphasising that visitors must strictly follow both the duration and the conditions of their visa.
This latest caution serves as a reminder for Nigerians travelling to the U.S. to acquaint themselves with local laws, maintain lawful conduct, and avoid any actions that could endanger their immigration status.
