The United States Mission in Nigeria issued a travel advisory on Sunday, reminding individuals holding dual American and Nigerian citizenship that they are legally required to enter and exit the United States using a valid U.S. passport. ​
In an official public notice shared via its verified X (formerly Twitter) account, the mission emphasized that federal immigration law strictly prohibits U.S. citizens, including minor children from entering or leaving the country on a foreign passport.
The rule applies to all U.S. citizens regardless of age, meaning children with dual nationality must also hold a valid American passport prior to travel. Because U.S. citizens are legally ineligible to receive a U.S. visa, dual nationals cannot apply for or travel on a foreign passport accompanied by an American visa.
Travel officials recommend that dual U.S.-Nigerian nationals carry both valid passports when traveling, as Nigerian immigration law requires a Nigerian passport for entry into and departure from Nigeria. ​
The U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos urged dual nationals planning upcoming international travel to review the validity of their U.S. travel documents well in advance to prevent travel disruptions or denied boarding at airports.
​”U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, must use a U.S. passport to enter and leave the United States,” the mission stated, noting that processing times for routine passport renewals at the consular sections in Abuja and Lagos typically take several weeks. ​
Travelers seeking routine passport renewals, first-time applications for minors, or emergency travel assistance are advised to schedule appointments online through the U.S. Embassy in Abuja or the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos.
