admin
The United States government has issued a stern warning to Nigerian students on academic visas, cautioning that skipping classes, dropping out, or leaving their academic programmes without proper notification could lead to immediate visa revocation and long-term travel bans.
The US Mission in Nigeria issued this warning via a message on its X handle, saying that students who are caught in the act would not only have their visas revoked, but might lose eligibility for future US visas.
“If you drop out, skip classes, or leave your program of study without informing your school, your student visa may be revoked, and you may lose eligibility for future U.S. visas,” the statement reads.
“Always adhere to the terms of your visa and maintain your student status to avoid any issues.”
According to a notice on the embassy’s website, F-1 and M-1 students studying in the United States must attend all classes and maintain normal academic progress.
“Maintain a full course of study each term. If you cannot study full time, contact your DSO immediately. You may be eligible for a reduced course load in limited circumstances,” the notice reads.
“Speak to your DSO before dropping a class. Talk to your DSO about requesting a possible program extension if you do not think you will complete your program of study by the end date listed on your Form I-20. An extension must be requested before your program end date.”
The US has given several warnings and precautions to visa applicants in recent times.
Last month, the embassy issued a statement warning that visa applicants who present fake documents would face a permanent entry ban from the US.
“Those who commit visa fraud will be banned from the United States for life,” the statement reads.
“A nation without borders is not a nation.”
The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) had also cautioned Nigerian travellers to strictly comply with the stated purpose of their United States’ visa application.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO), Akinsola Akinlabi, the government warned that violations such as overstaying or working without authorisation may lead to visa revocation, deportation, and future travel ineligibility.
The statement further warned students in the U.S. to remain in active study, as withdrawal or absenteeism could trigger visa cancellation.
The advisory adds that tourist visa applications may be denied if the applicant’s intent is to give birth in the U.S. for the purpose of citizenship.
The statement reads, “The Nigeria Immigration Service wishes to inform the general public of concerns raised by the United States Government regarding the misuse of U.S. visas by Nigerians.
“All visa holders are advised to strictly adhere to the purpose stated in their visa applications.
“U.S. authorities conduct security screening beyond the initial point of entry into the country. Any breach of immigration or other laws can lead to visa revocation or deportation.
“Breach of visa conditions, including overstaying, may attract severe penalties, including removal from the U.S. and permanent ineligibility for future travel.”
According to the statement, the Service expressed hope to continue collaboration with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to avoid Nigeria being included in any expanded visa restrictions.
