The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has directed the full implementation of a new visa reciprocity policy for citizens of the United States of America (USA) with effect from March 1, 2023.
According to africanbusinesstravel.com.ng, the directive followed the approval for the implementation of the new Bilateral Consular Policy Agreements between the governments of Nigeria and the United States of America.
The agreement, according to a statement e-signed and made available to African Business Travel News (ABTNews) on Friday by the Media Adviser to the Minister of Interior, Sola Fasure, amongst others include:
i. The reciprocity of five (5) year tourist visa validity for American Citizens pursuant to Section 30 of the Immigration Act, 2015; and ii. Extension of visa validity to three (3) years for Diplomats and government officials between the citizens of Nigeria and the United States of America.
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Consequently, the Minister of Interior has directed the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), to start the implementation of the policy from March 1, 2023.
It would be recalled that President Muhammadu Buhari launched the new Nigeria Visa Policy (NPV) in 2020, which amongst other things promote tourism. Tourist Visa falls under the Short Visit Visa (F5A) category. This policy is in line with Mr. President’s desire to boost business and cultural exchange between both nations.
“As part of the Bilateral Agreement, the United States of America will implement a similar policy for Nigerians wishing to travel on Tourist Visas to the United States and for Nigeria diplomats and officials visiting the country. The United State will thus extend Tourist Visa Validity for Nigerian citizens to five (5) years,” the statement explained.