US citizen visiting Nigeria is subject to Nigeria’s visa and immigration policy, which requires visitors to obtain a visa before entering Nigeria irrespective of the purpose of travel.
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US-Nigeria travel restrictions
When COVID-19 was at its peak 2020/2021, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR test) was a prerequisite for entering Nigeria from the US.
Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) specifically said pre-arrival or post-arrival testing for COVID-19 was no longer needed for US travelers (travelers generally) to enter Nigeria, irrespective of their vaccination status.
This means, if you have all other mandatory requirements, evidence of a pandemic test will no longer be needed making it relatively straightforward to travel to Nigeria.
It’s imperative to note that new restrictions could be put in place by the Nigerian government if there is a need to for a medical reason, visit the U.S Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria to obtain more info about the pandemic information.
What are the requirements for US citizens to enter Nigeria?
The entry requirements depend on the purpose of the visit, which basically falls under the kind of visa that suits your purpose.
The available Nigerian visa for US travellers to choose from are:
- Business Visa
- Visitor/tourist visa
- Subject to Regularisation (STR)
- Temporary Work Permit (TWP)
Requirement for Nigeria’s Tourist visa
Visa validity: 90 days
Application fee: US$160 for US Passport holders; US$144 for UK citizens. The price varies. You can find the applicable fee for your country on Nigeria’s Immigration site.
- 2 recent passport-size photographs
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Valid Passport for at least 6 months
- Nigeria Immigration Service Visa Payment Receipt
- Visa Acknowledgement Receipt
Business Visa
- Same as visitor visa apply
- A Letter of Invitation from a company if you are on a business visit
- If you are a self-sponsored business person, you don’t need a Letter of Invitation.
Temporary Work Permit (TWP)
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Copy of visitor pass form
- 2 passport-size photographs
- Copy of the Letter of Approval from Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service
STR Visa
STR means Subject to Regularisation which is a visa that a foreigner who wants to take up employment in Nigeria must obtain. Details about STR are provided in another article.
US-Nigeria travel advice
Nigeria is currently facing multi-dimensional security challenges, from terrorism to kidnapping for ransom, ritual killings and banditry in some parts of the country.
However, you definitely going to enjoy your stay in Nigeria because of its rich cultural heritage, foods, dance, and lots of attraction centers spread across the country.
While some states are on level 4 (states to avoid for security reasons), some are on Level 3 of the US travel advisory guides.
Nigerian States US citizens must avoid
The states below are on level 4 meaning, US travellers are advised against traveling to the state because of the risk of being a victim of the insecurity in the states:
For terrorism reasons:
- Abuja, The Federal Capital Capital Territory
- Borno,
- Yobe,
- Kogi,
- Adamawa
- Gombe,
- Kano,
For banditry and communal clash reasons
- Bauchi,
- Kaduna,
- Katsina, and
- Zamfara states
Maritime crime
- Bayelsa,
- Akwa Ibom
- Cross River
- Delta
- Rivers except for Port Harcourt
What of if I must travel to Nigeria from the U.S?
If your travel is unavoidable, you are advised to observe the security tips for foreigners to keep you safe when you are in Nigeria, some of them according to the US government include:
- Have proper identification with you, including a U.S. passport with a current Nigerian visa
- Avoid night travel if you can
- Don’t respond to unsolicited SMS or calls
- Don’t display wealth in public
- Don’t travel on deserted roads alone.
- Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
- Avoid demonstrations because they may turn violent.
- Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
- Follow the social media platforms of the Department of State.
What volume of cash can I hold when travelling to Nigeria?
When entering Nigeria, the maximum cash you bring in $10, 000 USD or its equivalent and must be declared.
Do I need vaccination to travel from the U.S. to Nigeria?
Beginning on December 12, 2022, travellers from the United States no longer need evidence of COVID-19 vaccination to travel to Nigeria.
How much cash can hold when leaving Nigeria?
When leaving Nigeria, you can hold up to $10,000 USD or its equivalent which must be declared at Customs.
Who do I contact if I need help in Nigeria?
The US embassy and consulates are in Nigeria to assist if you need help, check the addresses on their page.
Do I need a tourist visa to visit Nigeria?
Every visitor needs a tourist visa to enter Nigeria. No exceptions.
Conclusion:
US citizens can travel to Nigeria but are advised to abide by the security tips on this page for their safety regarding avoiding high-risk states.