The United States Mission in Nigeria has reminded Nigerians who also hold US citizenship that they must use a valid American passport when entering or leaving the United States.
In a statement shared on its official X account on Sunday, July 26, the mission said the rule applies to all US citizens, including children who hold dual nationality.
“U.S. citizens are REQUIRED to enter and depart the United States on a U.S. passport. This requirement applies equally to U.S. citizens, including children, who are dual nationals,” the mission said.
Dual Nationals Warned Against Using Foreign Passports for ESTA
According to the mission, dual-national US citizens cannot use their foreign passports to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), a US Department of Homeland Security programme that lets eligible foreign travellers enter the country without a visa for short stays.
The mission said applications submitted this way are routinely rejected.
“Dual national U.S. citizens may NOT use their foreign passport to apply for an electronic travel authorization (ESTA). The Department of Homeland Security routinely denies or cancels ESTAs for dual national U.S. citizens,” the statement said.
Mission Urges Americans Abroad to Check Passport Validity
The US Mission also advised American citizens living abroad, including those in Nigeria, to confirm their US passports are valid before making travel plans.
“If you are a U.S. citizen or national and live abroad and plan to travel to the United States, make sure you do so with a valid U.S. passport. If your U.S. passport is expired or expires soon, renew before your trip!” the mission said.
It added that many countries require passports to have at least six months of validity remaining before allowing entry, a standard rule travellers should factor into their planning regardless of destination.
The reminder is likely to affect many members of Nigeria’s dual-national community, particularly families with children born in the US who may be more accustomed to travelling on Nigerian documents.
Travellers with questions about passport renewal or ESTA eligibility can contact the US Mission in Nigeria for guidance ahead of upcoming trips.
I do not see wrongful deeds in this. If you want to enter their lands, you show them your passport of their making. I think same applies to other states as well, no? When it comes to migration rules?