The US Mission in Nigeria assures that Nigerian students with valid F1 and J1 visas can continue studies and exchange programs despite recent visa restrictions

The United States Mission in Nigeria has reassured Nigerian students and exchange participants that valid F1 and J1 visas will not be affected by the new visa restrictions.

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In a statement shared on X, the Mission clarified that students holding these visas can continue their studies and exchange programmes in the United States without disruption.

They remain free to contribute to academic research, innovation, and learning at U.S. institutions.

This clarification follows the implementation of Presidential Proclamation 10998, which restricts entry for certain foreign nationals as part of broader security measures.

The proclamation partially suspends issuance of some visas to Nigerian nationals, including nonimmigrant B-1/B-2 visitor visas, F, M and J student and exchange visas, and immigrant visas, with limited exceptions.

U.S. authorities emphasised that the suspension applies only to foreign nationals who were outside the U.S. on the effective date and did not already have a valid visa. Visas issued before the policy took effect remain valid and will not be revoked.

Nigeria is among 19 countries affected by the partial suspension, part of broader immigration adjustments introduced in recent months.

Previous measures had reduced most Nigerian non-immigrant visas to single-entry permits lasting three months.

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The latest clarification is expected to ease concerns for Nigerian students, allowing them to continue their academic and exchange programmes without interruption.