The United States has suspended visa processing for applicants from Nigeria, Russia and at least 71 other countries as part of a broad review of its immigration screening system, according to an internal directive from the US Department of State.
The instruction, which takes effect from January 21, directs American embassies and consulates to halt visa processing for nationals of the affected countries while authorities reassess vetting procedures.
The memo, first reported by Fox News, instructs consular officers to rely on existing legal provisions to deny applications during the review period.
The suspension covers multiple visa categories and has no specified end date, as officials have not indicated when the reassessment will be completed.
Countries affected span Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe and Latin America, including Nigeria, Somalia, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Afghanistan, Russia, Brazil and Thailand.
US officials linked the decision to stricter enforcement of the “public charge” rule in immigration law, which allows visa denial for applicants considered likely to depend on government assistance.
In November 2025, the State Department directed its missions worldwide to apply tougher standards in assessing such risks. Under the updated guidance, consular officers must consider additional factors such as age, health, English language proficiency, financial capacity, employment prospects and potential need for long-term medical care.
Somalia has faced increased scrutiny following a federal investigation in Minnesota that uncovered large-scale fraud involving publicly funded welfare programmes. Prosecutors said many suspects were Somali nationals or individuals of Somali descent.
Although Nigeria was not specifically cited in the memo, its inclusion places it among countries now facing tighter US entry requirements, at a time when many Nigerians seek visas for education, work, tourism and family reunification.
The State Department has not clarified whether humanitarian exemptions will apply or how long the suspension will last, leaving travellers, students and families uncertain.
Analysts warn the move could disrupt travel plans, delay education and employment opportunities, and strain diplomatic relations between the US and the affected countries.
