US Freezes Visa Processing for Nigeria, 74 Other Countries
The United States government has announced plans to pause visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, including Nigeria, over concerns that some applicants may rely heavily on welfare and public benefits.
According to the US State Department, the suspension is expected to begin on January 21 and will remain in effect indefinitely while immigration screening and vetting procedures are reassessed.
Countries Affected by the Visa Pause
The decision affects countries across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe and Latin America. Among those listed are Nigeria, Somalia, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Afghanistan, Russia, Brazil and Thailand, among others.
US embassies and consulates serving these countries have been instructed to apply stricter measures when assessing visa applications.
Welfare Dependence Concerns
President Donald Trump had earlier released data highlighting welfare usage among immigrant households. According to the figures, about 33.3 per cent of Nigerian immigrant households were reported to have received some form of public assistance in the United States.
The data reportedly influenced the latest policy move by the State Department.
New Screening Rules for Visa Applicants
A State Department memo, first reported by Fox News Digital, directed consular officers to deny visas under existing public charge laws while the department carries out a full reassessment of immigration procedures.
Under the directive, applicants may be refused visas if they are considered likely to depend on public benefits. Factors such as previous use of government cash assistance, institutionalisation, advanced age, or certain health conditions may also be considered during the evaluation process.
US Government Explains Decision
Explaining the move, State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott said the United States would continue to exercise its authority to prevent individuals likely to become a financial burden from entering the country.
According to him, the pause is aimed at ensuring that immigration policies protect American taxpayers and prevent abuse of public welfare systems.
The visa freeze will remain in place until the State Department completes its review of immigration screening standards.
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