Wayne Lumbasi
The United States government has announced that the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria will halt the issuance of certain visas to Nigerian nationals starting January 1st, 2026. The decision is part of Presidential Proclamation 10998, aimed at strengthening national security, improving vetting procedures, and addressing concerns over visa overstay rates.
Nigeria is among 19 countries affected by this measure, which primarily targets non-immigrant and some immigrant visa categories. The visa halt will affect B 1/B 2 visitor visas for business and tourism, F and M student visas, J exchange visitor visas, and certain immigrant visas.
While the suspension restricts eligibility for new visa issuance, the U.S. Mission clarified that applicants can still submit applications and attend interviews, though many may be found ineligible under the new rules. Importantly, visas issued before January 1st , 2026 remain valid and will not be revoked.
Exemptions to the halt include Lawful Permanent Residents (green card holders), dual nationals traveling with passports from countries not subject to the suspension, Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders, participants in international sporting events, and immigrant visas issued for humanitarian or minority protections. These exemptions ensure that critical travel and immigration pathways remain open despite the policy change.
The partial halt reflects broader U.S. concerns over security, identity verification, and compliance with visa rules. For Nigeria, authorities have cited vetting challenges and relatively higher overstay rates among certain visa categories. The January 1st, 2026, implementation provides a transition window for current visa holders and applicants to adjust plans accordingly.Travelers, students, and business professionals have been urged to review eligibility requirements carefully and follow official guidance from the U.S. Embassy. The visa halt underscores the evolving nature of U.S.–Nigeria visa relations, highlighting security and procedural compliance as central priorities for future travel.
VISA BANS AND CHALLENGES
U.S. REOPENS STUDENT VISAS – BUT DEMANDS ACCESS TO SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS
U.S VISA FEES WILL REMAIN NON-REFUNDABLE, EMBASSY TELLS NIGERIANS
