US suspends visa processing for Nigeria, 74 others from Jan 21
The United States has suspended visa processing for applicants from Nigeria and 74 other countries, effective January 21, 2026. An internal State Department directive orders American embassies and consulates to halt applications while authorities reassess vetting procedures, with no defined end date.
The suspension covers multiple visa categories and affects countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. Nigeria, Somalia, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Afghanistan, Russia, Brazil, and Thailand are among those listed. Officials link the move to stricter enforcement of the "public charge" provision, which allows visa denial for applicants deemed likely to depend on government assistance.
Consular officers must now evaluate additional factors including age, health condition, English language ability, financial resources, employment prospects, and possible need for long-term medical care. The review follows tighter standards issued in November 2025. Somalia drew heightened scrutiny after a Minnesota federal investigation uncovered extensive fraud in publicly funded welfare programmes involving Somali nationals.
Nigeria's inclusion places it among nations facing tougher entry requirements, affecting education, employment, tourism, and family reunification plans. The State Department has not disclosed exemptions for humanitarian cases or timeline for resolution. This uncertainty could disrupt mobility and delay educational and professional plans for thousands of Nigerians.
Prospective travellers face indefinite delays. Will you postpone travel plans, explore alternative destinations, or wait for policy reversal given no timeline is provided?