The United States Mission Nigeria says Nigerian students and exchange visitors with valid visas remain unaffected by recent visa restrictions.
In a statement posted on X, the mission clarified that holders of valid F1 and J1 visas can continue their studies and programmes.
The clarification followed concerns over the implementation of Presidential Proclamation 10998.
According to the mission, students and exchange participants with current visas may proceed to U.S. institutions without disruption.
F1 and J1 visas are non-immigrant categories issued to foreign nationals for academic study and exchange programmes.
The announcement comes months after the United States introduced partial visa restrictions on certain Nigerian nationals.
The restrictions took effect on January 1, 2026, under the proclamation on border and national security.
Nigeria is listed among 19 countries affected by the directive.
The policy imposes a partial suspension on the issuance of B-1/B-2 visitor visas.
It also covers certain student and exchange visa categories, alongside some immigrant visas.
However, the suspension applies only to individuals outside the United States without valid visas at the effective date.
Exemptions included lawful permanent residents and some special immigrant visa holders.
In January, the United States
Department of State introduced a refundable visa bond policy.
Under the measure, applicants from designated countries may be required to post bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000.
The bond applies mainly to B1/B2 visitor visa applicants assessed as higher risk.
U.S. authorities described the bond as a compliance tool rather than an additional visa fee.
