The US has updated its Visa Waiver Program (VWP), a scheme that allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the US for tourism or business without a visa. However, the changes introduced under the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015 require some travellers to apply for a US visa.
The affected countries are North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. Nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries who have travelled to or been present in these countries on or after March 1, 2011, are no longer eligible for visa-free travel, unless they have travelled for diplomatic or military purposes in the service of a Visa Waiver Program country.
Similarly, nationals of participating countries who have travelled to or been present in Cuba on or after January 12, 2021, are no longer eligible for visa-free travel under the program, with some exceptions for diplomatic or military cases.
The US government has also added that nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries who are also citizens of Cuba, North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria must obtain a visa before travelling. Travelers who remain eligible for the Visa Waiver Program must still obtain a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval before departure and meet all other program requirements.
The changes are intended to enhance national security and prevent potential acts of terrorism. The US government has stated that the restrictions are necessary to prevent individuals from using the Visa Waiver Program to travel to the US for malicious purposes.
The US embassy or consulate will process visa applications for affected travellers. The US government has also warned that travellers who attempt to enter the US without a valid visa may be denied entry and face other consequences.
Travellers who are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program can still travel to the US without a visa, but they must obtain a valid ESTA approval before departure. Travelers who are no longer eligible must apply for a visitor (B) visa through a US embassy or consulate.
This change affects many Nigerians who visit the US regularly for work, education, or tourism. Nigerian citizens who have travelled to the affected countries may need to apply for a US visa before their next trip.
The US government has made it clear that travellers who are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program must still meet all other program requirements, including limiting their stay to no more than 90 days for tourism or business purposes.
The US Department of Homeland Security has stated that the changes are part of ongoing efforts to enhance national security and prevent potential acts of terrorism.
Travelers from affected countries who have any questions or concerns about the changes should contact the US embassy or consulate in their country for more information.
The updated guidance has been posted on the US Department of State's website. Travellers should check the website for the latest information on the Visa Waiver Program and visa requirements.>