The United States has reminded Nigerians that the validity of a US visa does not determine how long a visitor can remain in the country, stating that the decision rests solely with officers of the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
In a statement issued on Monday, the US Mission in Nigeria explained that the length of stay for international visitors is decided by a CBP officer at the port of entry upon arrival in the United States.
The mission advised travellers to always check their Form I-94, which contains the official “Admit Until Date” indicating the period they are authorised to remain in the country.
“The length of time an international visitor is allowed to stay in the United States is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer, not the visa expiration date,” the mission stated.
A Form I-94 is issued to most foreign visitors during the admission process, except for US citizens, returning resident immigrants, foreigners with immigrant visas, and most Canadian citizens visiting or transiting through the country. Travellers entering through selected land borders or ferry ports can also apply for a provisional I-94 before arrival.
The US further warned that remaining in the country beyond the “Admit Until Date”, even if the visa is still valid, could lead to serious immigration consequences.
These include immigration violations, cancellation of an existing visa, and possible ineligibility for future US visas.
The reminder comes months after the United States placed Nigeria among countries facing partial travel restrictions, citing concerns over security and travel documentation.
According to the US Overstay Report, Nigeria recorded a 5.56% overstay rate for B-1/B-2 visitor visas and an 11.90% overstay rate for F, M and J visas, which are issued mainly to students and exchange visitors.
Source: US Mission in Nigeria.
