The United States has abruptly changed its non-immigrant visa rules for citizens of Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, and Nigeria, shifting from multi-entry, long-term visas to single-entry permits valid for only three months.

The State Department describes the overhaul as part of a “global reciprocity realignment,” intended to align US visa privileges with what those countries offer American travellers.

What Has Changed

Previously, holders from these African countries commonly received multiple-entry visas lasting two to five years. Under the new policy:

• Most visas will be single-entry and valid for just 90 days 

• Existing visas issued before 8 July 2025 will remain valid until their original expiry.

Nigeria Pushes Back

Nigeria was the first to respond. The Presidency's office, speaking through spokesman Bayo Onanuga, denied that it had downgraded US visitors’ visa access, and accused Washington of miscasting the changes as mutual reciprocity.

“Nigeria continues to grant five‑year multiple‑entry visas to US citizens,” Onanuga said. He clarified that a new 90-day e‑visa system targets tourists and business travellers, not traditional embassy-issued visas.

Ghanaian Concerns

In Accra, Ghana’s government noted it has granted more than 28,500 multiple-entry visas to US citizens this year. Officials expressed hope for “early resolution” and solidarity with affected citizens .

US Statement and Wider Context

A US embassy statement in Abuja defended the policy, noting visa norms are continuously reviewed based on diplomatic, security, and immigration standards. Affected African countries are urged to improve passport security, data sharing, and handling of visa overstays.

The policy update follows stricter restrictions on visas for Eritrea, Somalia, and Sudan earlier this year, when the US halted all visa issuance to citizens from those countries

Debate over Motives

Some observers argue the changes reflect standard global visa policies based on reciprocity. Immigration lawyer Godwin Oke described it as typical diplomatic practice aimed at aligning access on both sides .

Others, including a former aide to ex-President Buhari, suggested political motives may play a role. He linked the restrictions to Nigeria’s warmer relations with BRICS nations, including during President Tinubu’s recent Brazil visit

Consequences for Students and Businesspeople

Nigeria was Africa’s largest source of international students to the US in 2024, with numbers increasing by 13.5%, according to the Open Doors report. The curbs may pose significant challenges for educational exchanges and business travel .

In Summary:
Washington’s policy shift is billed as global reciprocity—but African governments argue it is disproportionate, given they continue to grant long-term visas to Americans. With millions affected, the move threatens ongoing cultural, educational, and economic ties.