US warns citizens to travel with valid passports

The United States government has issued a reminder to its citizens, emphasizing the mandatory use of valid U.S. passports for all international travel involving the U.S. This requirement extends to all U.S. citizens, including children and those holding dual citizenship.

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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 U.S. Mission in Nigeria specifically stated via X that dual national U.S. citizens cannot use their foreign passports to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The mission warned that the Department of Homeland Security routinely denies or cancels ESTAs for such individuals.

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dual national U.S. citizens may not use their foreign passport to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization.

Americans residing abroad are urged to verify that their travel documents are current before planning any trips back to the United States. The advisory also highlighted that many countries enforce a rule requiring passports to maintain at least six months of validity beyond the intended stay. This measure aims to ensure smooth travel and compliance with international regulations.

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If you are a U.S. citizen or national and live abroad and plan to travel to the United States, make sure you do so with a valid U.S. passport.