The United States government has suspended immigrant visa processing for Nigerians, dealing a fresh blow to citizens hoping to relocate to the country amid tightening immigration policies.
The suspension means that Nigerians will temporarily be unable to submit or process immigrant visa applications to the US until further notice.
Nigeria Among 75 Affected Countries
Nigeria is not alone in the latest restriction. The suspension also affects Russia, Somalia, Brazil, Afghanistan, and several other nations.
According to a report by Fox News, an internal US State Department memo revealed that the directive applies to applicants from 75 countries in total.
Why the US Took the Decision
The order, which was reportedly issued in November, is aimed at tightening immigration rules for applicants the US administration considers likely to become “public charges”—individuals who may rely heavily on government welfare and public benefits.
A State Department spokesperson, Tommy Piggott, explained the decision:
“The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge in the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people.”
He added that immigration from the affected countries would be paused while visa processing procedures are reassessed to prevent abuse of welfare systems.
When the Suspension Takes Effect
The immigrant visa processing suspension is scheduled to take effect on January 21.
New $15,000 Visa Bond for Nigerians
In a related move, the US recently announced a new policy requiring Nigerians applying for B1/B2 visitor visas to post bonds of up to $15,000. This policy is also set to begin on January 21.
More Restrictions Already in Place
Last month, the US further barred entry for Nigerians seeking admission as green card holders or under B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visa categories.
US authorities cited high visa overstay rates and security concerns as reasons for the escalating restrictions.
Part of a Wider Travel Ban Policy
These actions form part of a broader US immigration strategy that includes partial and full travel bans affecting several African, Latin American, and Asian countries.
What Nigerians Should Do
The latest suspension underscores the growing difficulty Nigerians face in securing US visas as immigration regulations continue to tighten.
Affected applicants are advised to closely monitor updates from the US State Department ahead of the January 21 implementation date for further guidance.
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