Nigerians spent more than N50bn on applications for United States non-immigrant visas between 2023 and 2024, despite a decline in the number of visas issued during the period.
An analysis based on data from the US Department of State showed that 201,200 non-immigrant visas were granted to Nigerians over the two years.
With the standard visa application fee set at $185, applicants paid an estimated $37.2m, equivalent to about N50.7bn at an average exchange rate of N1,360 to the dollar.
The data indicated that visa issuances dropped by approximately 23 per cent, falling from 113,900 in 2023 to 87,300 in 2024, representing a decline of 26,600 approvals.
Business and tourism visas remained the most common category issued in 2024, accounting for about 83 per cent of approvals, while student visas made up roughly seven per cent.
Exchange visitor visas and other temporary categories accounted for the balance.
Despite the drop, Nigeria remained one of the major source countries for travellers to the United States, contributing about 0.8 per cent of global non-immigrant visa issuances in 2024.
Former President of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies, Susan Akporiaye, said the demand for foreign travel among Nigerians extends beyond economic reasons, describing mobility as a strong cultural trait.
She noted that while concerns persist over Nigerians overstaying abroad, the majority of travellers return home after their visits, adding that only a small fraction remain permanently outside the country.
The decline in visa approvals coincides with stricter immigration measures introduced by the United States.
Since 2025, Nigerian applicants have faced tighter requirements, including shorter visa validity periods, expanded social media disclosure rules and additional travel restrictions.
Travel industry operators also said approval rates have become less predictable, prompting many Nigerians to consider alternative destinations such as the United Kingdom and other countries where visa prospects are perceived to be more favourable.
