US to Nigerians: Border Officers Decide How Long Visitors Can Stay — not Visa Validity

The United States says the length of time an international visitor is allowed to stay in the country is determined by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer, not the visa expiration date.

The US mission issued the reminder to Nigerians in a statement on Monday, adding that CBP officer determines the length of stay upon the visitor’s arrival.

Travellers were asked to check their Form I-94 for confirmation of approved duration. The form contains an “admit until date”.

A Form I-94 is needed by all visitors except US citizens, returning resident immigrants, foreigners with immigrant visas, and most Canadian citizens visiting or in transit.

Travellers are issued an I-94 during the admission process at the port of entry.

However, foreigners traveling via a land border or by ferry from selected ports may apply for a provisional I-94 in advance.

The US has repeatedly warned that overstaying the “admit until date” even with a valid visa can result in immigration violations, cancellation of existing visas, and ineligibility for future US visas.

Last year, the US added Nigeria to a list of countries facing partial travel restrictions, citing “security and documentation” concerns.

According to the Overstay Report, Nigeria had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 5.56 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 11.90 percent.