The United States has suspended visa processing for applicants from Nigeria, Russia, and more than 70 other countries as part of a broad review of its immigration screening procedures, according to an internal directive from the US Department of State.
The directive will takes effect from 21 January, instructs American embassies and consulates worldwide to halt visa processing.
This for nationals of at least 73 countries while authorities reassess existing vetting and eligibility standards.
The internal memo, first reported by Fox News, directs consular officers to rely on current legal grounds to refuse visa applications during the review period.
The suspension affects multiple visa categories and does not have a defined end date, as US officials have not indicated when the reassessment will be concluded.
Countries impacted by the measure span Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
Among those listed are Nigeria, Somalia, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Afghanistan, Russia, Brazil, and Thailand.
US officials have linked the move to stricter enforcement of the “public charge” provision in immigration law.
This allows authorities to deny visas to applicants deemed likely to rely on government assistance.
In November 2025, the State Department instructed diplomatic missions globally to apply tighter standards when assessing such risks.
Under the updated guidance, consular officers are now required to consider additional factors
However, this includes applicants’ age, health status, English-language proficiency, financial capacity, employment prospects, and potential need for long-term medical care.
How It Affect Nigerians
Although Nigeria was not specifically cited in the memo, its inclusion places it among countries facing tougher US entry requirements.
This comes at a time when large numbers of Nigerians apply for US visas for education, employment, tourism, and family reunification.
The State Department has not clarified whether humanitarian exemptions will apply or how long the suspension will last.
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This leaves prospective travellers, students, and families uncertain.
Observers have warned that the policy could disrupt international mobility.
Also, delay in academic and professional plans, and potentially strain diplomatic relations between the United States and the affected nations.
