The United States Mission in Nigeria has reminded Nigerians who also hold U.S. citizenship that they are required to use a valid U.S. passport when entering or departing the United States.
The advisory was issued in a statement posted on the mission’s official X account on Sunday.
According to the mission, the requirement applies to all U.S. citizens, including children who possess 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 statement read.
The mission also warned that dual-national U.S. citizens are not permitted to use their foreign passports to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
It explained that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security routinely denies or cancels ESTA applications submitted by dual-national U.S. citizens who apply using foreign passports.
“Dual-national U.S. citizens may not use their foreign passport to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The Department of Homeland Security routinely denies or cancels ESTAs for dual-national U.S. citizens,” the mission stated.
The U.S. Mission further advised American citizens living abroad, including those residing in Nigeria, to ensure their U.S. passports remain valid before making travel arrangements.
It urged travellers whose passports have expired or are close to expiration to renew them ahead of their planned trips to avoid travel disruptions.
In addition, the mission reminded international travellers that many countries require passports to have at least six months’ validity before entry is permitted.
The advisory forms part of ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to ensure compliance with American travel and immigration regulations for citizens holding dual nationality.