The United States Mission in Nigeria has reminded Nigerians who also hold U.S. citizenship that they must use a valid American passport whenever they enter or leave the United States, warning that failure to do so could lead to travel complications.
The advisory was issued on Sunday through the mission’s official X account, where it stressed that the rule applies to all U.S. citizens, including children with dual nationality.
According to the mission, American citizens who also hold another country’s passport are not allowed to use their foreign passport to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
“U.S. citizens are REQUIRED to enter and depart the United States on a U.S. passport. This requirement applies equally to U.S. citizens, including children, who are dual nationals,” the mission stated.
The U.S. Mission explained that the Department of Homeland Security regularly rejects or cancels ESTA applications submitted by dual-national U.S. citizens using foreign passports.
“Dual national U.S. citizens may NOT use their foreign passport to apply for an electronic travel authorization (ESTA). The Department of Homeland Security routinely denies or cancels ESTAs for dual national U.S. citizens,” the statement added.
The mission also urged U.S. citizens living abroad, including those residing in Nigeria, to check the validity of their American passports before making travel arrangements.
“If you are a U.S. citizen or national and live abroad and plan to travel to the United States, make sure you do so with a valid U.S. passport. If your U.S. passport is expired or expires soon, renew before your trip!” the mission advised.
In addition, travellers were reminded that several countries require passports to have at least six months’ validity before they can be used for international travel.
“Remember many countries require passports have six months validity,” the mission noted.
The latest advisory is aimed at ensuring that dual-national U.S. citizens comply with American travel regulations and avoid unnecessary delays or disruptions when travelling to the United States.
