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Tag: Visa

  • FULL LIST: 75 countries where US suspends visa processing

    FULL LIST: 75 countries where US suspends visa processing

    The United States State Department has announced a suspension of immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries as it reassesses those who may become a “public charge.”

    The suspension, which takes effect from January 21, affects countries including Somalia, Russia, Afghanistan, Brazil, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Nigeria, Thailand and Yemen. It will remain in place indefinitely while consular officers review screening procedures.

    The decision comes amid intensified scrutiny of Somali nationals after a major fraud scandal in Minnesota involving taxpayer-funded welfare programmes, with many of those implicated identified as Somali or Somali-American.

    In November 2025, the State Department issued fresh directives to U.S. consular posts worldwide, instructing officials to apply stricter screening under the long-standing “public charge” provision.

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    Under the rule, visa applications may be denied based on factors such as age, health status, English language proficiency, financial capacity and the likelihood of requiring long-term public assistance.

    State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott said the measure was aimed at protecting U.S. public resources.

    “The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people,” he told Fox News.

    “Immigration from these 75 countries will be paused while the State Department reassesses immigration processing procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would rely on welfare and public benefits.”

    Here is the Full list of affected countries:

    Afghanistan 

    Albania 

    Algeria 

    Antigua and Barbuda 

    Armenia 

    Azerbaijan 

    Bahamas 

    Bangladesh 

    Barbados 

    Belarus 

    Belize 

    Bhutan 

    Bosnia and Herzegovina 

    Brazil 

    Myanmar 

    Cambodia 

    Cameroon 

    Cape Verde 

    Colombia 

    Côte d’Ivoire 

    Cuba 

    Democratic Republic of the Congo 

    Dominica 

    Egypt 

    Eritrea 

    Ethiopia 

    Fiji 

    The Gambia 

    Georgia 

    Ghana 

    Grenada 

    Guatemala 

    Guinea 

    Haiti 

    Iran 

    Iraq 

    Jamaica 

    Jordan 

    Kazakhstan 

    Kosovo 

    Kuwait 

    Kyrgyzstan 

    Laos 

    Lebanon 

    Liberia 

    Libya 

    North Macedonia 

    Moldova 

    Mongolia 

    Montenegro 

    Morocco 

    Nepal 

    Nicaragua 

    Nigeria 

    Pakistan 

    Republic of the Congo 

    Russia 

    Rwanda 

    St Kitts and Nevis 

    St Lucia 

    St Vincent and the Grenadines 

    Senegal 

    Sierra Leone 

    Somalia 

    South Sudan 

    Sudan 

    Syria 

    Tanzania 

    Thailand 

    Togo 

    Tunisia 

    Uganda 

    Uruguay 

    Uzbekistan 

    Yemen

  • FULL LIST: Countries Nigerians can visit without visa

    FULL LIST: Countries Nigerians can visit without visa

    Nigerian passport holders can now access 45 countries worldwide without obtaining a visa in advance, according to the latest update released by Visaindex.

    The development is expected to ease international travel for Nigerians, expanding opportunities for tourism, business engagements and family visits while reducing administrative bottlenecks.

    Of the 45 destinations, 27 grant full visa-free entry, while others offer alternatives such as visa-on-arrival or require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), depending on the country’s immigration framework.

    Although entry conditions differ across jurisdictions, the update underscores expanding global mobility for Nigerians and reflects gradual improvements in travel access with fewer procedural barriers.

    Notable African Countries Open Doors to Nigerians

    Gambia – Since 2019, The Gambia has operated as a visa-free zone for all African travelers. The policy also extends to visitors from Commonwealth countries, the European Union, and select Baltic states, a move that has boosted tourism and trade.

    Benin – Following Rwanda’s lead, Benin lifted visa requirements for all African nationals in 2019. The policy has strengthened the country’s position as a hub for commerce and travel in West Africa.

    Kenya – In October 2023, President William Ruto announced that Kenya would abolish visa requirements for all African travelers by the end of the year. The initiative is aimed at enhancing regional trade, economic cooperation, and cross-border connectivity.

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    Rwanda – Rwanda introduced its visa-free policy in November 2023, allowing African nationals to visit without paying fees. The move reinforces Rwanda’s status as a leading tourist destination on the continent.

    Ghana – Ghana has recently joined the list of visa-free African nations, opening its doors to travelers from across the continent. The policy is expected to attract tourists, business professionals, and investors, supporting Ghana’s ambition to become a West African trade and tourism hub.

    Other Countries Granting Visa-Free or Streamlined Entry for Nigerians

    Barbados

    Burkina Faso

    Cameroon

    Cape Verde

    Chad

    Cook Islands

    Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast)

    Dominica

    Fiji

    Guinea

    Guinea-Bissau

    Haiti

    Kiribati

    Liberia

    Mali

    Micronesia

    Montserrat

    Niger

    Saint Kitts and Nevis

    Senegal

    Sierra Leone

    Togo

    Vanuatu

    This development highlights the growing ease of international travel for Nigerian citizens, offering greater freedom to visit multiple countries with minimal visa requirements.

  • US introduces $15,000 visa bond requirement for Nigerians, others

    US introduces $15,000 visa bond requirement for Nigerians, others

    The United States has introduced new visa restrictions that may require Nigerians applying for B1/B2 (business and tourism) visas to post a bond of up to $15,000.

    According to information published on the U.S. Department of State’s website, Travel.State.Gov, the bond is a financial guarantee and does not guarantee visa approval. The State Department also warned that any bond paid without the explicit direction of a consular officer will not be refunded.

    The updated list released by the U.S. State Department on Tuesday shows that 24 of the 38 affected countries are in Africa, including Nigeria.

    Visa bonds are required for certain foreign nationals from countries classified by the U.S. as high-risk. The bond serves as a guarantee that visa holders will comply with the terms of their stay and depart the United States before their authorised period expires.

    Implementation dates vary by country. For Nigeria, the visa bond requirement will take effect on January 21, 2026.

    The Department of State explained that nationals of the listed countries who are otherwise eligible for B1/B2 visas will be required to post bonds of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, with the exact amount determined during the visa interview.

    Applicants will also be required to submit the Department of Homeland Security’s Form I-352 and agree to the bond terms through the U.S. Treasury’s online payment platform, Pay.gov, regardless of where the visa application is submitted.

    Countries affected by the directive include Algeria, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan, Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Djibouti, Dominica, Fiji, Gabon, The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mauritania, Namibia, Nepal, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uganda, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Zambia and Zimbabwe with implementation dates ranging between August 2025 and January 2026.

    Read Also: U.S. Embassy to put visa issuance on hold in Nigeria, 18 other countries from Jan 1

    The directive further states that visa holders who post bonds must enter the United States through designated airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport (New York), Boston Logan International Airport, and Washington Dulles International Airport (Virginia).

    Refunds will only be issued if the Department of Homeland Security confirms that the visa holder departed the U.S. on or before the expiration of their authorised stay, if the visa expires without travel, or if the traveller is denied entry at a U.S. port of entry.

    The development comes barely a week after the U.S. imposed partial travel restrictions on Nigeria and 14 other mostly African countries. In Nigeria’s case, U.S. authorities cited the activities of extremist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State, which they said pose significant screening and vetting challenges.

    The U.S. government also pointed to Nigeria’s visa overstay rates of 5.56 per cent for B1/B2 visas and 11.90 per cent for F, M and J visas as justification. As a result, the restrictions cover both immigrant visas and non-immigrant categories, including B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M and J visas.

  • Visa restrictions ‘ll address U.S.-Nigeria mutual security concerns – Envoy

    Visa restrictions ‘ll address U.S.-Nigeria mutual security concerns – Envoy

    The United States’ Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, says the recent visa restrictions announced by the U.S. government are designed to strengthen security procedures, and not actions targeted at Nigerians.

    Mills gave the clarification at a news conference on Sunday in Abuja during the visit of a U.S. Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to Nigeria.

    He said the presidential proclamation, which would take effect from Jan. 1, 2026, affecting certain visa categories, was part of broader measures to secure U.S. borders and protect American communities.

    “The focus of the visa review is on ensuring proper vetting and credible information in the visa process, not on penalising Nigerians,” Mills said.

    According to him, the proclamation clearly specifies the visa categories that may be affected, while also outlining exemptions for certain groups.

    He listed the exemptions to include holders of official and diplomatic passports, as well as individuals travelling for religious work.

    The ambassador urged visa applicants and members of the public to consult the U.S. Embassy’s official website for detailed information on the proclamation, affected visa categories and available exemptions.

    He also urged those with specific enquiries to use the designated communication channels provided by the embassy for further guidance.

    Also speaking, Leader of the U.S. Congressional Delegation,  Rep. Bill Huizenga, said visa reviews and restrictions were routine tools used to encourage compliance and cooperation, rather than punitive actions targeting citizens.

    Huizenga said the focus of such measures was primarily on government systems and processes, not on the Nigerian people, adding that similar reviews were routinely applied in different parts of the world.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the U.S. government had reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining strong people-to-people ties with Nigeria, while announcing the visa reviews and restrictions.

    It described the visa measures as part of a wider engagement aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation while addressing shared security concerns.

    (NAN)

  • BREAKING: US imposes visa restriction on individuals violating religious freedom in Nigeria

    BREAKING: US imposes visa restriction on individuals violating religious freedom in Nigeria

    The United States has imposed visa ban on individuals who have directed, authorised or  supported violations of religious freedom.

    The restriction may also affect their immediate family members.

    The Department of State, in a statement on Wednesday titled ‘Combating Egregious Anti-Christian Violence in Nigeria and Globally’,  said the United States was taking decisive action in response to the mass killings and violence against Christians by radical Islamic terrorists, Fulani ethnic militias and other violent actors in Nigeria and beyond. 

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    The statement said: “A new policy under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act will allow the State Department to restrict visa issuance to individuals who have directed, authorised, significantly supported, participated in, or carried out violations of religious freedom and, where appropriate, their immediate family members. 

    “As President Trump made clear, the ‘United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening in Nigeria, and numerous other countries.’ This policy will apply to Nigeria and any other governments or individuals engaged in violations of religious freedom.”

  • US introduces new visa, green card rules for applicants with chronic health conditions

    US introduces new visa, green card rules for applicants with chronic health conditions

    The United States government has rolled out new immigration guidelines that could deny visas and green cards to foreign nationals living with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and other long-term illnesses.

    The directive, issued under President Donald Trump’s administration, broadens the definition of a “public charge”, a term in U.S. immigration law referring to individuals likely to become financially dependent on government assistance.

    According to a State Department cable circulated to U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, visa officers have been instructed to identify applicants whose medical conditions could result in “hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of care.”

    The document lists cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, cancers, metabolic and neurological disorders, as well as mental health conditions among the illnesses that could trigger visa denials. It also highlights obesity as a potential red flag, citing its association with costly complications such as asthma, sleep apnea, and hypertension.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Steps to secure a US visa sponsorship from Nigeria

    Under the new policy, officials are directed to consider whether applicants may pose a financial burden on the state due to their health conditions.

    Previously, medical screenings for visa applicants mainly focused on communicable diseases such as tuberculosis. However, this directive marks a significant policy shift, placing chronic illnesses at the center of immigration eligibility assessments.

    According to the U.S.-based Murthy Law Firm, the State Department’s move represents an unprecedented linkage between health status and admissibility, effectively tying an applicant’s medical history to their perceived economic value.

    It remains unclear whether these new rules will extend to nonimmigrant visa categories such as tourist (B1/B2) or student (F1) visas.

  • FULL LIST: Five African countries Nigerians can visit without visa

    FULL LIST: Five African countries Nigerians can visit without visa

    Nigeria has joined a growing wave of African nations advocating for easier cross-border movement as several countries on the continent remove travel restrictions and open their borders to fellow Africans. This marks a major step toward regional integration and cooperation.

    The move toward visa-free travel aims to strengthen economic partnerships, boost tourism, and promote a deeper sense of African unity.

    Although many nations still require entry permits or visas, an increasing number have adopted open-border policies that allow Africans, including Nigerians, to travel freely, reflecting the continent’s growing commitment to a more connected and borderless Africa.

    Here are five African countries Nigerians can visit without visa

    1. Seychelles

    Seychelles has long been a pioneer in visa-free travel. The island nation has maintained an open-door policy for years, allowing visitors from all over the world—including every African country—to enter without a visa. As a tourism-driven economy, Seychelles thrives on accessibility and remains one of the most open destinations on the planet.

    2. The Gambia

    In 2019, The Gambia officially became a visa-free zone for all African nationals. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that citizens from African countries, as well as visitors from the Commonwealth, the European Union, and other regions, could enter freely. This policy was designed to promote trade, tourism, and continental unity, making The Gambia a key gateway to West Africa.

    Read Also: Top seven strongest African passports in 2025

    3. Benin

    Also in 2019, Benin took a major step toward African integration when President Patrice Talon lifted all visa requirements for Africans. Inspired by Rwanda’s open-border policy, Benin’s decision was aimed at encouraging investment, regional mobility, and a stronger sense of solidarity among African nations.

    4. Kenya

    In October 2023, President William Ruto announced Kenya’s plan to eliminate visa requirements for all African travelers by the end of the year. The policy was implemented soon after, making Kenya one of the most accessible destinations in East Africa. The move reflects the country’s vision of boosting intra-African trade, tourism, and cooperation.

    5. Rwanda

    Rwanda joined the list of visa-free countries in November 2023 when President Paul Kagame declared that all Africans could now visit Rwanda without a visa. The policy strengthened Rwanda’s position as a leader in regional integration and tourism. With its beautiful landscapes, clean cities, and progressive policies, Rwanda continues to set an example of openness and hospitality on the continent.

  • FULL LIST: US H-1B visa approvals for Nigerians since 2018

    FULL LIST: US H-1B visa approvals for Nigerians since 2018

    The H-1B is a classification of non-immigrant visa in the United States that allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations, as well as fashion models, or persons who are engaged in Department of Defense projects who meet certain conditions. 

    The regulation and implementation of visa programs are carried out by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), an agency within the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS). 

    Foreign nationals may have H-1B status while present in the United States, and may or may not have a physical H-1B visa stamp.

    H-1B visa status holders typically have an initial three-year stay in the U.S. They are entitled to a maximum of six years of physical presence in H-1B status. 

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    After reaching certain milestones in the green card process, H-1B status can be extended beyond the six-year maximum. 

    The number of initial H-1B visas issued each fiscal year is capped at 65,000, with an additional 20,000 visas available for individuals who have earned a master’s degree or higher from a U.S. institution, for a total of 85,000. 

    Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a new rule for foreign professionals, including Nigerians seeking opportunities in the United States.

    Under the policy, American companies that hire foreign workers through the H-1B visa program will now be required to pay $100,000 (about ₦150 million) per worker every year.

    Here is a full list for US H-1B visa approvals for Nigerians since Fiscal Year 2018: 

    The Fiscal Year (FY) is October 1 to September 30. FY 2018 is October 1, 2017 to September 30, 2018. 

    1. 2018 – 391

    2. 2019 – 385

    3. 2020 – 232

    4. 2021 – 198

    5. 2022 – 588

    6. 2023 – 740

    7. 2024 – 880

  • Beyond the UK, US, and Canada: Three countries with simplified visa routes

    Beyond the UK, US, and Canada: Three countries with simplified visa routes

    For many Nigerians, the dream of relocation abroad has long been tied to the US, UK, or Canada. But rising visa rejections and soaring relocation costs are forcing would-be migrants to look beyond the usual options.

    Now, several countries are emerging with friendlier entry policies, cheaper living standards, and defined paths to residency, offering fresh hope to those eager to start anew overseas.

    1. Germany – Work and Student-Friendly Routes

    Germany is fast becoming a top choice for Nigerians in search of better prospects. The country’s Job Seeker Visa allows qualified professionals to enter and job-hunt for up to six months. For students, relatively low tuition fees and a generous post-study work visa provide a smoother path into the labour market. With strong demand for skilled workers in IT, engineering, and healthcare, Germany offers practical opportunities for relocation.

    Here are three countries that offer exciting pathways:

    2. Australia – Skilled Migration Made Easier

    Australia operates a points-based immigration system that often favours young, skilled candidates. Professions such as nursing, teaching, IT, and construction remain in high demand, opening doors for Nigerians with the right qualifications to secure permanent residency. The Temporary Graduate Visa also makes it easier for international students to enter the workforce after completing their studies.

    Read Also: Deputy Speaker Kalu urges Nigerians to back Tinubu’s reforms, reserved seats bill

    3. Portugal – Flexible Residency Options

    Portugal has established itself as one of Europe’s most accessible entry points. Its D7 Visa targets passive income earners and remote workers, while the Golden Visa provides routes for investors. With a lower cost of living than most Western European countries, Portugal offers affordable relocation, and after five years of residency, applicants can qualify for citizenship.

  • Visa denial threatens Nigeria’s participation at World Wrestling Championships

    Visa denial threatens Nigeria’s participation at World Wrestling Championships

    Nigeria’s preparation for the 2025 World Wrestling Championships in Zagreb, Croatia, has been thrown into crisis following the refusal of visas to four of its top athletes by the Croatian authorities.

    In an appeal addressed to the President of United World Wrestling (UWW), the President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Hon. Daniel Igali, described the decision as “bewildering” and “profoundly unfair,” stressing that it undermines the principles of equality and universality in global sport.

    The affected athletes include multiple African champions and Olympians: Genesis Miessinne Mercy, Ogunsanya Tolulope Christianah, Ojo Damola Hannah, and Izolo Stephen Simon.

    According to Igali, the Croatian embassy cited doubts over whether the athletes would return to Nigeria as the reason for the refusal, a basis he described as unjustifiable for officially accredited and government-funded competitors.

    Read Also: COVID-19 checks halt World Wrestling Championships

    “These are not unknown or unproven competitors, Ojo Damola Hannah and Izolo Stephen Simon both won their first African titles this year, while Ogunsanya Christianah and Genesis Mercy are multiple-time African champions who represented Nigeria at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games,” he said.

    Igali emphasised that participation in the World Championships is a critical step in the athletes’ journey towards the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. He warned that excluding them would not only damage their careers but also send a troubling message that athletes from Africa are treated as second-class participants on the global stage.

    “Our team is scheduled to depart for Zagreb on September 13, 2025. Time is of the essence,” Igali appealed, calling on UWW to intervene directly with Croatian authorities to ensure the athletes are granted visas immediately.

    The NWF president concluded by urging wrestling’s global leadership to protect the rights of all athletes and ensure that merit—not nationality—remains the sole determinant of participation in international competitions.