US Embassy Warns Nigerians Against Visa Fraud, Urges Reporting

The United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a renewed warning against visa fraud, urging Nigerians to report any suspicious activity to its Fraud Prevention Units in Abuja and Lagos. The move is part of ongoing efforts to safeguard the integrity of the US visa system.

In a statement posted on X, the mission emphasized that fraudulent activities “bring increased scrutiny on all visa applicants,” noting that US consular officers conduct thorough screening to detect irregularities. Nigerians are encouraged to report suspected fraud via email at AbujaFPU@state.gov or LagosFPU@state.gov.

Visa fraud, including falsifying application forms, submitting fake documents, or misrepresenting facts, carries serious consequences under US immigration law. Officials have repeatedly warned that such actions may result in permanent bans on entering the United States, lifelong ineligibility for future visas, or denial of entry at US ports if discovered.

The embassy’s advisory also cautions against unlicensed intermediaries or “visa consultants” who claim they can guarantee appointments or approvals for a fee. Applicants are reminded that official visa fees are paid only through government channels, and no third party can lawfully guarantee a visa outcome.

Visa fraud has broader implications beyond individual cases. Consular officials noted that overstays or misuse by some travellers can lead to tighter visa policies for all applicants from a given country, affecting students, professionals, business visitors, and family travellers with legitimate reasons to travel to the US.

Nigerians have consistently been among the largest groups applying for US non-immigrant visas across Africa, including tourist, business, student, and work visas. However, in mid-2025, the US Department of State introduced reciprocal restrictions, limiting many Nigerian non-immigrant visas to single-entry with three-month validity as part of broader policy adjustments.

US officials stress that law-abiding Nigerians continue to travel legally as temporary workers, professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors. Compliance with application rules and honesty in documentation remain critical for maintaining these opportunities.

Applicants are advised to use only official US government websites (ending in .gov) for forms and payments, avoid unofficial agents promising special access, and report suspected fraud to the embassy’s fraud units.