US embassy warns dual citizens against travelling on foreign passports

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has reminded American citizens with dual nationality that they must use a valid US passport when entering or departing the United States.

In an advisory shared on its official X account on Sunday, the embassy said the requirement applies to all US citizens, including children, who hold citizenship of another country.

The embassy warned that dual US nationals are not permitted to use their foreign passports to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

The embassy said the US Department of Homeland Security routinely denies or cancels ESTA applications submitted by dual US citizens 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 advised US citizens living abroad to ensure they travel with a valid US passport and renew any passport that has expired or is close to expiring before making travel plans.

It also reminded travellers that many countries require passports to have at least six months’ validity before entry. (TheCable)