US to revoke visas of Nigerians, other foreigners who apply for asylum after entering as visitors

The Trump administration has announced intentions to revoke non-immigrant visas from foreign nationals, including Nigerians, who entered the United States as short-term visitors but subsequently applied for asylum. This move is part of a larger crackdown on immigration, both undocumented and legal, under the Trump administration.

The US State Department, in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security, is identifying those who entered on temporary visitor visas and later sought asylum, according to a spokesperson. While the exact number of affected individuals remains undisclosed, up to 200,000 holders of business and tourist visas could face visa revocation.

These visas, typically granted for business trips, tourism, medical treatment, and short-term visits, include B-1 and B-2 visas issued between 2016 and 2026. However, the revocation process would not immediately lead to deportation. Individuals with pending asylum cases would be reclassified, losing their original visa status as business or tourist visitors.

US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau criticized the American immigration system, stating it has been overwhelmed by "frivolous asylum claims." The State Department previously reported that over 175,000 foreign nationals' visas were revoked by the Trump administration as part of its immigration enforcement actions. The administration claims these policies aim to strengthen national security and enforce US immigration laws strictly.