U.S. Expands Travel Restrictions, Adds Nigeria to Partial Ban List

The United States has imposed expanded travel restrictions on Nigeria, placing the country among 15 nations facing partial entry limitations over security and immigration concerns. The policy was announced through a presidential proclamation issued on December 16, 2025.

Under the directive signed by President Donald Trump, Nigerian citizens are affected across several visa categories, including tourist, student, exchange, and immigrant visas. The move forms part of a broader effort by the U.S. administration to tighten border security and immigration controls.

A White House fact sheet said Nigeria was added due to ongoing gaps in visa screening, vetting procedures, and information-sharing systems, which U.S. authorities consider security risks. Higher-than-average visa overstay rates by Nigerian travellers were also cited.

While the restrictions apply broadly, exemptions remain for lawful permanent residents, diplomats, certain existing visa holders, and individuals granted waivers based on U.S. national interests. Other countries added to the partial restriction list include Angola, Senegal, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.