Nigerians spent an estimated N50.7 billion on U.S. visa applications between 2023 and 2024, despite a noticeable decline in approval rates amid stricter immigration policies and enhanced screening procedures.
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According to an analysis by Intelpoint, based on data from the U.S. Department of State, a total of 201,200 non-immigrant visas were granted to Nigerian applicants during the two-year period. With the standard application fee set at $185, total expenditure on applications is estimated at $37.2 million, equivalent to approximately N50.7 billion at an exchange rate of N1,360 to the dollar.
The figures reveal a significant drop in visa issuances, falling from 113,900 approvals in 2023 to 87,300 in 2024—a decline of nearly 23 percent, representing 26,600 fewer visas issued. Data for 2025 has not yet been released.
Business and tourism travel continued to dominate approved applications, with B1/B2 visas accounting for 83 percent of all visas issued to Nigerians in 2024. Student visas represented about 7 percent, while other categories made up the remaining share.
On a global scale, Nigeria contributed approximately 0.8 percent of all U.S. non-immigrant visas issued in 2024.
Industry observers attribute the sustained demand for U.S. visas to Nigerians’ strong interest in international travel, education, and business opportunities abroad. However, they note that obtaining approval has become increasingly challenging due to evolving immigration policies and more rigorous vetting processes.
Following the return of Donald Trump to the White House in 2025, additional measures were introduced, including a policy limiting most Nigerian visas to single-entry access with a three-month validity period. Applicants were also required to disclose social media accounts used within the previous five years as part of the screening process.
Further travel restrictions introduced in December 2025 extended limitations affecting Nigeria and several other countries from January 2026.
Travel consultants have reported a rise in rejection rates, particularly among first-time applicants. As a result, some Nigerians are exploring alternative destinations such as the United Kingdom and parts of Europe, although those regions have also implemented tighter immigration controls in recent years.
The latest figures highlight a growing gap between demand for U.S. travel opportunities and the increasingly stringent requirements applicants must meet to secure entry.
