The United States Mission in Nigeria has reminded Nigerians who are also U.S. citizens that they must use a valid U.S. passport whenever they enter or leave the United States.
In a statement posted on its official X account on Sunday, July 26, the mission stressed that the rule applies to all American citizens, including children with dual nationality.
The mission explained that dual U.S. citizens cannot use a foreign passport to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). It noted that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regularly rejects or revokes ESTA applications submitted by dual nationals using non-U.S. passports.
It also urged U.S. citizens living abroad, including those in Nigeria, to ensure their American passports are valid before travelling to the United States. Those with expired or soon-to-expire passports were advised to renew them ahead of their trip.
Additionally, the mission reminded travellers that many countries require passports to remain valid for at least six months before allowing entry.