US Visa Cancelled or Revoked in Nigeria? The Complete Guide to Understanding Why and What to Do Next

Introduction: The Nightmare Scenario

Imagine this: You are at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, bags packed, ready for your summer vacation in Texas. You approach the airline counter, hand over your passport, and wait. The airline staff types in your details, frowns, and asks you to wait. Minutes later, they deliver the crushing news: “We cannot board you. The US authorities have revoked your visa.”

Or perhaps you received a terrifying email from the US Embassy in Abuja or Consulate in Lagos with the subject line: “Notice of Visa Revocation.”

For thousands of Nigerians, this is not a hypothetical nightmare—it is a reality. The cancellation or revocation of a US visa is one of the most stressful immigration experiences a traveler can face. It often happens without warning, leaving individuals confused, embarrassed, and desperate for answers.

In this comprehensive guide, we will demystify the complex world of US visa cancellations. We will explain the critical difference between a denial and a revocation, explore the specific reasons why the US Embassy in Nigeria cancels existing visas, and provide a clear, honest roadmap on how to navigate the aftermath.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws are complex. For specific legal counsel, consult a qualified US immigration attorney.

1. “Visa Denied” vs. “Visa Cancelled”: What is the Difference?

To solve the problem, you must first understand the terminology. In the Nigerian context, these terms are often used interchangeably, but they mean very different things.

A. Visa Denial (Refusal)

This happens during the application process. You go for your interview at the embassy, and the consular officer hands you a paper (usually citing Section 214(b)) stating you did not qualify. You never had the visa in the first place.

B. Visa Cancellation / Revocation

This happens to a valid visa that is already stamped in your passport. You successfully passed the interview, received the visa, and perhaps even used it before. Then, due to new information or a specific event, the US government invalidates it.

• Revocation: usually happens while you are still in Nigeria (via email or phone call).
• Cancellation (CWOP): Often happens at the US border (Point of Entry) or when you go to the embassy for a different service. An officer physically writes “Cancelled Without Prejudice” or stamps over the visa.

2. Top 5 Reasons Why US Visas Get Revoked in Nigeria

The US Embassy does not cancel visas for “no reason.” In almost every case, a specific trigger alerts the Department of State. Here are the most common causes for Nigerian travelers.

Reason 1: The “Birth Tourism” Bill (Unpaid Medical Expenses)

This is arguably the #1 reason for revocations among Nigerian families.

• The Scenario: You traveled to the US on a B1/B2 (Visitor) visa and gave birth to a child.
• The Violation: Giving birth in the US is not illegal. However, using public funds (Medicaid) to pay for the birth when you entered as a “wealthy tourist” is considered a violation of the public charge rules.
• The Result: If you fail to pay your medical bills in full, or if you paid a “discounted rate” meant for indigent US residents, the Embassy may revoke your visa and your spouse’s visa upon discovery.

Reason 2: Overstaying Your Welcome

• The Scenario: The CBP officer at the airport gave you a 6-month stay (I-94), but you stayed for 6 months and 2 days.
• The Violation: Staying even one day past the date stamped on your I-94 triggers an automatic voiding of your visa under Section 222(g).
• The “Frequent Stayer”: Even if you don’t overstay, spending 5 months in the US, returning to Nigeria for 2 weeks, and trying to go back for another 5 months signals “Immigrant Intent.” This often leads to cancellation at the airport.

Reason 3: Working on a Visitor Visa

• The Scenario: You entered on a B1/B2 visa for a “holiday,” but US authorities found evidence (text messages, emails, or luggage contents) that you were babysitting for pay, hair braiding, or consulting for a US company.
• The Violation: Unauthorized employment is a serious breach of US immigration law.

Reason 4: Misrepresentation (The Dropbox Trap)

• The Scenario: You apply for a renewal via the Interview Waiver (Dropbox) program. In the application, you fail to mention a previous arrest, a change in marital status, or a relative in the US.
• The Violation: If the Consular officer discovers a discrepancy between your new DS-160 and your historical data, they may call you in for an interview. If they confirm you lied to gain a benefit, they will revoke the current visa and potentially ban you.

Reason 5: DWI/DUI and Criminal Records

• The Scenario: You are arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in the US or even in Nigeria (if the information is shared).
• The Violation: The Department of State has a strict policy regarding alcohol-related arrests. They physically revoke the visa to force the applicant to undergo a medical panel physician screening before they can travel again.

3. The “Cancelled Without Prejudice” (CWOP) Stamp

If you look at your passport and see a stamp that says “Cancelled Without Prejudice,” do not panic immediately.

• What it means: This stamp simply means the visa is no longer valid, but it does not necessarily mean you are banned or that you committed a crime.
• Common Scenario: You have an old visa in an expired passport, and you just received a new visa in a new passport. The officer cancels the old one to prevent confusion.
• The Bad Version: If the stamp says “Cancelled With Prejudice” or acts as a record of a withdrawal of application for admission, it carries serious weight and often implies a bar from entering the US for a certain period (5, 10, or 20 years).

4. The Immediate Aftermath: What To Do Next

If you receive that dreaded email or get turned back at the airport, your immediate reaction will determine your future chances.

Step 1: Do Not Fight the Officer

If this happens at a US Point of Entry (airport), getting aggressive will only worsen the situation. CBP officers have immense authority. Listen to their questions, answer truthfully, and accept the decision to return home. Arguing can lead to a “expedited removal” which carries an automatic 5-year ban.

Step 2: Read the Fine Print

You will usually be given a document outlining why you were denied entry or why the visa was revoked.

• Look for codes like 212(a)(6)(C)(i) (Material Misrepresentation/Fraud) or 212(a)(7)(A)(i)(I) (Intending Immigrant).
• Knowing the specific code is the only way to know if you need a waiver to return.

Step 3: Wait and Re-strategize

Many Nigerians immediately rush to fill out a new DS-160 form the next day. This is a mistake.

• Unless the revocation was a clear error, applying immediately usually results in a standard denial.
• You must demonstrate a “significant change in circumstances” or address the specific reason for the revocation (e.g., providing receipts that the hospital bill was paid in full).

5. Can I Ever Get a US Visa Again?

The short answer is Yes, but it will be harder.

Once a visa is revoked, you lose the privilege of the “Dropbox” (Interview Waiver). You will likely be required to appear for in-person interviews for the rest of your life.

The Path to Redemption:

1. Honesty: On your next DS-160, there is a question: “Has your US Visa ever been cancelled or revoked?” You MUST answer “YES.” Lying here is fraud and will seal your fate permanently.
2. Evidence: If the revocation was due to medical bills, bring zero-balance receipts. If it was due to “immigrant intent,” bring stronger ties to Nigeria (property deeds, employment letters, marriage certificates).
3. Waivers: If you were banned for fraud or criminal acts, you may need to apply for a “Waiver of Inadmissibility.” This is a complex legal process that often requires a US citizen relative (spouse or parent) to file on your behalf.

6. Beware of “Visa Fixers” and Scammers

AdSense Policy dictates that we prioritize user safety. This section is crucial.

In Lagos and Abuja, countless “agents” claim they can “delete” a revocation from the embassy’s computer or “appeal” the decision for a fee of N500,000 or more.

• The Truth: The US Consular database is a secure, global federal system. No agent in Ikeja or Wuse Zone 4 has access to delete your record.
• The Risk: Giving money to these fixers often leads to them creating fake documents for your next application, which leads to a permanent lifetime ban for fraud.
• Official Channels: The only way to resolve a visa issue is directly through a new application with the US Embassy or through a qualified US Immigration Attorney.

Conclusion: A Setback, Not the End

A US visa cancellation is painful. It disrupts plans, hurts reputations, and causes financial loss. However, it is rarely the end of the road. Many travelers have successfully reapplied and obtained visas after a revocation by being transparent, patient, and compliant with the law.

If you are facing this situation, take a deep breath. Gather your facts, consult with professionals if necessary, and approach your next application with absolute honesty. The Green Passport can fly again.

Note: This blog post provides general information and guidance. It does not replace official advice from the US Department of State. Always refer to travel.state.gov for the latest policy updates.