The United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a reminder to Nigerians who hold dual citizenship to use a valid U.S. passport when entering or exiting the United States. This advisory was released on the mission’s official X account on July 26.
The U.S. Mission emphasized that all American citizens, including children with dual nationality, are required to travel on a U.S. passport. The statement noted, “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.”
Furthermore, the mission advised that dual-national U.S. citizens cannot use foreign passports when applying for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). It warned that applications submitted using foreign passports by dual nationals are often denied or canceled by the Department of Homeland Security.
The mission also encouraged American citizens residing abroad, including in Nigeria, to ensure their U.S. passports are valid ahead of any travel plans. It cautioned that many countries require passports to have a minimum of six months’ validity for entry.