The United States Mission in Nigeria has reminded Nigerian travellers to strictly comply with US immigration rules, warning that staying beyond the approved period could lead to visa cancellation and affect future travel opportunities.
The advisory was issued through the Mission’s official X account as part of its #VisaWiseTravelSmart campaign, amid increased scrutiny of visa overstays by Nigerian nationals.
According to the Mission, many travellers mistakenly believe they can remain in the United States until the expiration date printed on their visa. However, it clarified that the duration of stay is determined by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the point of entry.
“The length of time an international visitor is allowed to stay in the United States is determined by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer upon your arrival, NOT your visa expiration date,” the Mission stated.
It explained that a US visa only allows a traveller to request entry into the country, while the final decision on how long the person may stay rests with CBP officers.
“The CBP officer determines your ‘Admit Until Date’ upon your arrival,” the Mission added, advising travellers to check their I-94 record online to know the exact date they are required to leave the country.
The warning comes as US authorities continue to pay closer attention to visa overstays by citizens of countries with high rates of immigration non-compliance, including Nigeria.
The Mission cautioned that remaining in the US beyond the approved “Admit Until Date”—even with a valid visa—could result in immigration violations, cancellation of existing visas and possible ineligibility for future US visa applications.
According to official US data, Nigeria has a 5.56% overstay rate for B-1/B-2 visitor visas, while the overstay rate for student and exchange visas (F, M and J categories) stands at 11.90%.
The Mission also warned that visa overstays by some travellers could have wider consequences, including stricter visa screening, longer processing times and additional documentation requirements for other Nigerian applicants.
It therefore urged Nigerians travelling to the United States for business, education or tourism to check their I-94 records immediately after arrival and ensure they leave before their authorised stay expires.
