The United States Embassy in Nigeria has reiterated that new visa restrictions affecting Nigerian and other foreign nationals remain in force, with key provisions of the policy already effective from January 1, 2026.
In a statement issued via the embassy’s official X account, it stressed that the measure is being implemented in accordance with Presidential Proclamation 10998 on “Restricting and Limiting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the Security of the United States.”
Under the policy, the United States has partially suspended the issuance of certain non-immigrant and immigrant visas to nationals of 19 countries, including Nigeria. Affected categories include B-1/B-2 visitor visas and F, M, and J visas for students and exchange visitors.
The affected countries are:
Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
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The U.S. government emphasised that the suspension applies only to nationals who are outside the United States as of January 1, 2026, and who do not hold a valid visa at that time; visas issued before that date will not be revoked and will remain valid.
Several exemptions have also been outlined, including:
- Immigrant visas for ethnic and religious minorities facing persecution in Iran.
- Dual nationals applying with passports from countries not subject to the suspension.
- Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) for eligible U.S. government employees.
- Participants in designated major sporting events.
- Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) of the United States.
The embassy’s update comes amid growing concern among prospective travellers, students, and business visitors from Nigeria and other affected countries who must now navigate the evolving U.S. visa landscape.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
