The United States Warns of Permanent Visa Ban for Fraud
The United States warns of a permanent ban for visa fraud
as Nigeria enforces tougher penalties
The United States has issued a caution regarding permanent bans and legal action against those who are found responsible for visa fraud or facilitating illegal immigration.
In a statement released on its official X page on Monday, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria warned: “Individuals who engage in visa fraud will be permanently banned from entering the United States. A nation without borders is no nation at all. We will seek criminal prosecution against those involved in visa fraud and those who aid and shelter illegal immigrants.” This warning is part of a broader initiative by U.S. authorities to address immigration violations and fraudulent entry practices.
Additionally, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja has issued a notification to American citizens living in Nigeria, advising them to adhere to the Nigerian government’s recently introduced immigration policies. As per a statement dated 7 July 2025 that was made available on the embassy’s website, the Nigerian government will implement strict penalties against foreigners who overstay their visas starting from 1 August.
“To afford affected individuals a chance to comply with immigration laws, an online immigration amnesty portal will be accessible until the end of July,” the embassy noted. “U.S. citizens currently in Nigeria who have overstayed their visa are strongly encouraged to regularize their status through the amnesty portal before 31 July 2025.”
The embassy cautioned that noncompliance could result in substantial fines and long-term restrictions on re-entering Nigeria. Earlier, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced that foreigners who overstay their visas would face daily surcharges and visa bans.
The new regulations, which came into effect on 1 May 2025, impose a $15 daily fine on those who overstay. According to the Interior Ministry, visitors who do not regularize their status before the 31 July deadline will start accumulating fines. Overstays of six months or more will incur a five-year re-entry ban, while those surpassing one year will face a ten-year ban.
The amnesty portal enables holders of expired visa-on-arrival permits, single-entry visas, or expired expatriate residence cards to submit applications, upload documents, and receive clearance online, thereby eliminating the need for physical visits or additional fees. Both nations have emphasized the importance of adhering to immigration regulations, as reforms become increasingly stringent.
Source: Tvc News
