Locked Out: Wave of Visa Policy Changes Stirs Anxiety Among Nigerians

In a time when mobility drives opportunity, Nigerian passport holders are facing mounting restrictions across some of the world’s most sought-after destinations. From the United Kingdom to United States, recent changes in visa policies make traveling for Nigerians more difficult than ever. 

While the official reasons range from “technical benchmarks” to “security concerns,” the implications for Nigerians are profound.

United Kingdom: Tighter Screening

While no new public legislation has been passed, the UK is reportedly increasing scrutiny on visa applicants from Nigeria, particularly students and skilled workers. An intelligence-sharing system developed with the UK’s National Crime Agency now monitors financial records and behavior to detect potential asylum-seekers before they enter the country.

The UK government is trying to stem the flow of migrants who arrive legally and then apply for asylum, with Nigerians among the top users of this route. The move is also part of broader immigration tightening by the Conservative-led government.

Though UK officials deny the existence of blanket bans, Nigerian officials have raised quiet concerns over the implications for educational and professional exchange.

Canada: Raising the Bar with Financial Requirements

Canada increased its proof-of-funds requirement for Express Entry applicants. A single person must now show CAD $15,263 (over ₦17 million) in settlement funds up from the previous threshold.

Ottawa is under pressure to reduce strain on public services and housing. The government aims to ensure that immigrants can financially sustain themselves upon arrival.

No official protest has been filed by the Nigerian government, but the change has made Canada once seen as a friendly destination for Nigerian professionals and graduates less accessible for many.

United Arab Emirates (Dubai): A Second Blow After the Ban

After lifting its two-year visa ban on Nigeria in 2024, the UAE introduced fresh restrictions:

• Transit visas for Nigerians are banned.

• Nigerians aged 18–45 must travel with someone, and

• Applicants over 45 must submit bank statements showing over $10,000 monthly income for the past six months.

The UAE cited security and migration control, following prior diplomatic tensions over repatriations and irregular migration.

The Nigerian government has called for respectful and balanced treatment of its citizens and is pressing for a review of the stringent conditions.

Saudi Arabia: Hajj-Season Visa Freeze

Saudi Arabia temporarily suspended blockwork visas for Nigerians and citizens from six other African nations during the 2025 Hajj season.

The move was reportedly part of an effort to control labor inflow during pilgrimage and prioritize Saudi employment quotas.

There has been no strong public protest, but the decision has caused disruption among those seeking work or religious travel to the Kingdom.

United States: From Long-Term Access to a Three-Month Window

The U.S. now issues only single-entry, three-month visas for most Nigerian non-immigrant applicants down from the previous two-year, multiple-entry standard.

The U.S. Embassy claims this move is part of a global technical and security review of visa usage not a targeted political decision. However, concerns over visa overstays, asylum claims, and immigration system abuse by Nigerian nationals have long been simmering beneath the surface.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed concern and vowed to engage diplomatically with U.S. officials to better understand and address the “technical benchmarks” referenced.

For a country with one of the largest diasporas and a rising young population eager to explore, work, and study abroad, these restrictions are a blow to mobility and opportunity. Yet, this also presents a challenge and an opportunity for Nigeria to rebuild global trust, modernize its systems, and reaffirm its standing in international diplomacy.