15 Ways Nigeria, 35 other Nations can avoid Trump’s looming U.S. Visa ban

Fresh revelations indicate that President Donald Trump is weighing a visa ban targeting Nigeria and 35 other countries as part of his intensified immigration crackdown.

Here are 15 strategic measures these countries can adopt to steer clear of the proposed restrictions.

1. Submit an Action Plan Within 60 Days

Countries have 60 days from receiving the memo to present an initial action plan to the U.S. State Department, detailing how they will meet new benchmarks.

2. Provide Reliable Identity Documentation

Governments must demonstrate the existence of a competent, cooperative authority capable of issuing credible civil and identity documents, such as passports and birth certificates.

3. Tackle Widespread Government Fraud

Nations identified with systemic fraud in document issuance or governance must implement robust anti-corruption reforms to assure the U.S. of improved integrity.

4. Reduce Visa Overstays

Countries with high numbers of citizens who overstay visas in the U.S. must enforce better public awareness and cooperation in repatriation of overstayers.

5. Reconsider ‘Passport-for-Cash’ Schemes

Nigeria and other countries offering citizenship by investment without requiring residency may face penalties. Scaling back such programmes can help avoid inclusion on the ban list.

6. Sign a Safe Third Country Agreement

Countries willing to accept third-country nationals deported from the U.S. or sign a Safe Third Country Agreement may reduce risk of sanctions.

7. Prove Cooperation with U.S. Authorities

Governments must show active and consistent cooperation with U.S. law enforcement and immigration agencies in verifying travelers and handling deportations.

8. Address Anti-American or Antisemitic Threats

Countries cited for allowing anti-American or antisemitic activities within the U.S. may need to show credible steps to prevent radicalisation or hate activity from their nationals.

9. Enforce Border and Travel Security Measures

Improving border controls, exit-entry tracking, and investing in biometric screening systems could boost credibility and avoid the ban.

10. Engage in Diplomatic Negotiation

Nigeria and other nations at risk should engage in direct diplomatic dialogue with the U.S. State Department to negotiate compliance pathways and avoid blanket sanctions.

11. Review and Improve Inter-agency Coordination

Countries should strengthen internal coordination among immigration, foreign affairs, intelligence, and civil registry bodies to ensure efficient data sharing and compliance.

12. Share Biometric and Security Data with Interpol or U.S. Agencies

Establish agreements to share biometric and criminal data, such as fingerprints or terrorist watchlists, which the U.S. considers crucial for vetting.

13. Implement Advanced Passenger Information Systems (APIS)

Using APIS allows governments to screen travellers before departure, enhancing control and demonstrating responsibility to the U.S. immigration system.

14. Nigeria-Specific: Crack Down on Fake Passport Syndicates

Nigeria, often spotlighted for document fraud, could launch a public and diplomatic campaign to clean up passport issuance processes.

15. Request Technical Support from the U.S. or Allies

Some nations may lack resources to meet these benchmarks—requesting assistance from U.S. agencies or allies like the UK or EU could buy time and goodwill.