- Nigerian immigrants must obtain a green card and complete the naturalisation process to gain voting rights
- New US citizens can register online, by mail, or in-person to vote in federal, state, and local elections
- Non-citizens who vote illegally may face fines, prison time, and deportation
For Nigerian emigrants in the United States, participating in the US elections is a goal that requires meeting specific criteria. While the idea of voting might be appealing, the process is governed by strict rules that are tied to citizenship status.
Nigerians must naturalise before being eligible to vote
For emigrants, including those with permanent resident status (green card holders), the path to voting in US elections involves becoming a naturalised citizen and following the registration process.
The naturalisation process could take years and involves several steps, starting with obtaining a green card and eventually applying for citizenship.
Once an individual becomes a naturalised citizen, they gain the right to vote in all elections, including presidential races.
New citizens must register to vote after naturalisation
After naturalisation, new citizens must register to vote before participating in elections. Many new citizens can complete their voter registration during their naturalisation ceremony, but if not, they can register later through various means.
These include registering online (where available), by mail using the National Mail Voter Registration Form, or in person at local election offices.
Each state has its own rules regarding voter registration, and immigrants should ensure they meet the specific requirements of their state.
Illegal voting as a non-citizen could lead to fines, prison, deportation
A key point to remember is that voting as a non-citizen is illegal and carries serious consequences. Non-citizens found voting in federal elections face hefty fines, possible prison sentences, and the risk of deportation.
In addition, individuals who falsely claim US citizenship to register to vote may be denied future immigration benefits, including naturalisation.
While the consequences of illegal voting are severe, the reward of having a voice in US elections is an important right once citizenship is achieved.
Nigerians take sides in US election as Trump, Harris go head to head for presidency
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that Nigerians were divided in their support for Harris and Trump in the US 2024 presidential elections.
While the Nigerian government had refrained from endorsing any US presidential candidates, TheRadar compiled reactions from the Nigerian populace.