The United States Embassy in Nigeria has reminded American citizens who hold dual nationality that they are required by law to use a valid U.S. passport whenever they enter or leave the United States.
The reminder was issued in a travel advisory posted on the embassy’s official X account on Sunday.
According to the embassy, the requirement applies to every U.S. citizen, including children, regardless of whether they also possess the citizenship of another country.
The mission also warned dual U.S. nationals against using their foreign passports to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), stressing that such applications are not permitted under U.S. immigration rules.
It noted that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security routinely rejects or cancels ESTA applications submitted by American citizens using passports issued by another country.
“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 stated.
It added: “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 advised U.S. citizens residing outside the country to ensure they travel with a valid American passport and renew passports that have expired or are close to expiration before making travel arrangements.
It also reminded travellers to check the passport validity requirements of their destination countries, noting that many nations require passports to remain valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry.
