The United States has suspended visa processing for Nigerians, Russians and dozens of other countries amid a major review of immigration screening procedures
US Suspends Visa Processing for Nigerians, Russians, Others Amid Immigration Review
The United States government has suspended visa processing for applicants from Nigeria, Russia, and dozens of other countries as part of a sweeping reassessment of its immigration screening and vetting procedures.
The directive, issued by the US Department of State, took effect on January 21 and instructs American embassies and consulates worldwide to halt visa processing for nationals of at least 73 countries while the review is ongoing.
The internal memo, first reported by Fox News, directs consular officers to rely on existing legal provisions to refuse visa applications during the suspension period. No timeline has been provided for when the reassessment will be completed.
The suspension affects multiple visa categories and cuts across regions including Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Countries listed include Nigeria, Somalia, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Afghanistan, Russia, Brazil, and Thailand, among others.
US officials linked the decision to stricter enforcement of the “public charge” rule, a provision in immigration law that allows visa denial for applicants deemed likely to depend on government assistance.
In November 2025, the State Department had already instructed diplomatic missions to apply tighter standards when assessing applicants under this provision. The updated guidance requires consular officers to consider additional factors such as age, health status, English proficiency, financial resources, employment prospects, and potential need for long-term medical care.
Somalia has received particular attention following a federal investigation in Minnesota, which uncovered large-scale fraud involving publicly funded welfare programmes. Prosecutors said many of those implicated were Somali nationals or individuals of Somali descent, leading to heightened scrutiny of visa applications linked to the country.
Although Nigeria was not specifically cited in the memo as a focal point, its inclusion places it among nations now facing tougher entry conditions. This development comes as many Nigerians seek US visas for education, employment, tourism, and family reunification.
The State Department has yet to clarify whether humanitarian exemptions will be granted or how long the suspension will remain in effect, leaving students, professionals, and families in growing uncertainty.
Analysts warn that the move could disrupt travel plans, delay academic and career opportunities, and strain diplomatic relations between the United States and the affected countries if prolonged. Read More
