The US Embassy in Nigeria has reminded Americans with dual nationality that they must enter or leave the country with a valid US passport.
In an advisory posted on its official X account on Sunday, the embassy stated that the need applies to all United States citizens, including minors, who have citizenship in another country.
The embassy warned that dual US nationals cannot apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) using their foreign passports.
The embassy stated that the US Department of Homeland Security often declines or cancels ESTA applications filed using foreign passports.
“U.S. citizens are REQUIRED to enter and depart the United States on a U.S. passport. This requirement applies equally to U.S. citizens, including children, who are dual nationals,” the embassy said.
“Dual national U.S. citizens may NOT use their foreign passport to apply for an electronic travel authorization (ESTA). The Department of Homeland Security routinely denies or cancels ESTAs for dual national U.S. citizens.”
The embassy urged U.S. citizens living abroad to hold a valid U.S. passport and renew any expiring documents before booking travel.
It also reminded travelers that many countries require a passport to remain valid for at least six months upon entry.
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Backstory…
The latest advisory follows longstanding U.S. immigration and nationality laws requiring American citizens, including dual nationals, to enter and leave the United States using a valid U.S. passport.
While many dual citizens routinely travel with passports issued by their other country of nationality, U.S. authorities have consistently warned that doing so when travelling to or from the United States could lead to delays, additional questioning or difficulties establishing citizenship at ports of entry.
The State Department has repeatedly reminded Americans that a foreign passport does not replace the legal requirement to use a U.S. passport for U.S.-bound travel.
