Overstaying, Birth Tourism May Lead to U.S. Visa Ban, Immigration Warns
By: Israel Adeleke
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports as gathered that the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has issued a travel advisory cautioning Nigerian citizens against the misuse of United States visas, following growing concerns raised by the U.S. Government over violations by some Nigerian travellers.
OTN News further reports that, in a statement released by the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, the NIS emphasized that all U.S. visa holders must strictly comply with the stated purpose of their visa applications.
The advisory highlights the potential consequences of misusing a visa, including revocation, deportation, and ineligibility for future travel to the United States.
Akinlabi warned, that overstaying, working without authorisation, or misrepresenting your intentions can have serious immigration consequences.
Furthermore, he added that visa holders must respect the terms of their stay and avoid actions that could be seen as deceptive or unlawful.
Specifically addressing students, the NIS urged those studying in the U.S. to remain enrolled and actively participate in their academic programs. Any form of withdrawal or extended absenteeism, the advisory noted, could result in visa cancellation and possible removal from the U.S, he warned.
The Service also raised red flags over a rising trend involving the misuse of tourist visas. According to the advisory, U.S. visa applications may be denied if the intent is to travel for the sole purpose of giving birth in America to secure citizenship for the child, a practice known as “birth tourism.”
“The U.S. authorities are increasingly scrutinising such applications, and failure to disclose true intentions may lead to visa denial or cancellation,” the statement reads.
The NIS reiterated its commitment to working closely with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure that Nigeria does not face expanded visa restrictions as a result of these violations.
“We are engaging with U.S. immigration officials to promote compliance and safeguard the integrity of Nigerian travellers,” Akinlabi noted, adding that the advisory is part of ongoing efforts to protect the country’s international mobility and reputation.
The Service, however, encouraged prospective travellers to seek accurate information and adhere to immigration laws to avoid jeopardizing their travel prospects.
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