Fresh US Embassy Directive Sparks Concern Among Dual Citizens

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has reminded Americans who hold dual citizenship that they must use a valid U.S. passport whenever they enter or leave the United States.

In a travel advisory shared on its official X account on Sunday, the embassy said the rule applies to every U.S. citizen, including minors who also possess the citizenship of another country.

The mission also cautioned dual nationals against using a foreign passport to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), explaining that such applications are routinely rejected or revoked by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

“U.S. citizens are required to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport. This applies equally to dual nationals, including children,” the embassy stated.

It further explained that dual U.S. citizens are not eligible to use a foreign passport when seeking ESTA approval, noting that the Department of Homeland Security regularly denies or cancels such applications once it determines the applicant is an American citizen.

In addition, the embassy encouraged U.S. citizens residing overseas to keep a close watch on the validity of their passports and renew them well before they expire.

Travellers were advised to begin the renewal process early, especially if their passports are nearing expiration, to avoid disruptions to their travel plans.

The embassy also reminded international travellers that passport requirements differ across countries, with many destinations requiring visitors to have at least six months of validity remaining on their passports before they are allowed entry.