Gate News message, April 14 — The United States announced it will partially suspend visa issuance to citizens of 19 countries, including Nigeria, starting January 1, 2026, according to a notice from the U.S. Mission in Nigeria. The restriction affects visitor visas, student visas, exchange programs, and most immigrant visas, following a presidential order to tighten U.S. border and immigration rules.
Nigerians holding valid U.S. visas as of January 1, 2026, will remain unaffected, and no existing visas will be canceled. Exemptions apply to dual citizens using passports from non-restricted countries, U.S. permanent residents, individuals traveling for specific international sporting events, and special immigrant visa holders linked to U.S. government employment. New applicants may face rejection even after completing the application process and attending interviews.
The policy creates uncertainty for Nigerian students and young professionals, as Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest sources of international students and visitors to the U.S. Families awaiting immigrant visas may experience increased delays, and U.S. organizations relying on Nigerian students and workers could see reduced participation.
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