By Ghazali Ibrahim
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 leaving the United States.
In a travel advisory posted on its official X account on Sunday, the mission said the rule applies to all American citizens, including children with dual nationality.
The mission also warned that dual-national U.S. citizens cannot use their foreign passports to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), noting that such applications are routinely denied or cancelled by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
“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 stated.
It added: “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 mission further advised U.S. citizens living abroad, including those residing in Nigeria, to ensure their American passports remain 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 statement said.
It also reminded travellers that many countries require passports to have at least six months’ validity before entry, urging citizens to check the expiration dates on their travel documents well in advance of their journeys.
