The United States will begin a partial suspension of visa issuance to Nigerians from January 1, 2026, following a new presidential proclamation aimed at strengthening border and national security. The proclamation provides for a partial suspension of visa issuance covering nonimmigrant B-1/B-2 visitor visas, as well as F, M and J student and exchange visitor visas. It also applies to immigrant visas, though with limited exceptions. Other exempted categories include lawful permanent residents of the United States and participants in certain major international sporting events. More recently, reports suggested that applications for certain immigrant visas, including green cards, could face suspension under the new proclamation.

Source: Punch December 23, 2025 04:38 UTC