U.S. to Partially Suspend Visas for Nigerians From January 2026

The United States has announced a partial suspension of specific visa categories for Nigerian nationals, a move set to take effect from January 1, 2026, as part of new border and national security measures.

In a statement released on Monday, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria confirmed that the restrictions will begin at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Standard Time, in line with Presidential Proclamation 10998. The directive, titled “Restricting and Limiting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the Security of the United States,” affects citizens of 19 countries, including Nigeria.

Under the proclamation, the U.S. government will suspend the issuance of certain nonimmigrant visas. These include B-1/B-2 visitor visas, as well as F, M, and J visas commonly issued to students and exchange program participants. The measure also extends to immigrant visas, although specific exemptions apply.

Nigeria joins other affected countries such as Angola, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, Tanzania, Venezuela, and Zambia, among others. U.S. authorities say the policy is part of broader efforts to strengthen border controls and address national security concerns.

Despite the restrictions, several categories of applicants are exempt. These include lawful permanent residents of the United States, dual nationals applying with passports from countries not covered by the suspension, and individuals eligible for Special Immigrant Visas due to their service to the U.S. government. Participants in major international sporting events are also exempt, as are certain ethnic and religious minorities facing persecution in Iran.

Importantly, the suspension applies only to foreign nationals who are outside the United States on the effective date and who do not already hold a valid U.S. visa. Nigerian applicants may still submit visa applications and attend interviews, but U.S. officials warned that such applicants could ultimately be deemed ineligible for visa issuance or entry under the new rules.

The announcement has sparked concern among prospective travelers, students, and families in Nigeria, many of whom are seeking clarity on how the policy will affect future travel plans. The U.S. Mission has advised applicants to carefully review the proclamation and stay informed as further guidance becomes available.

As the January 2026 implementation date approaches, the policy is expected to generate ongoing discussion around travel access, education, and diplomatic relations between the United States and affected countries.