US suspends visa processing for Nigeria, Russia, Iran and dozens of countries

The United States has temporarily halted visa processing for Nigeria, Russia, Iran and at least 73 other countries, as Washington undertakes a comprehensive review of immigration screening procedures over concerns about potential dependence on public benefits.

An internal memo from the US Department of State, first reported by Fox News, instructs consular officers to suspend processing of visa applications from January 21, 2026, until the reassessment is completed. During this period, officers are directed to refuse applications under existing provisions of US immigration law.

The suspension affects multiple visa categories and applies to countries across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Latin America, including Nigeria, Somalia, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Afghanistan, Russia, Brazil, and Thailand.

The policy is tied to the “public charge” rule, which allows US authorities to deny entry to individuals considered likely to rely on government assistance. In November 2025, the State Department expanded the criteria consular officers must assess, including applicants’ age, health, English proficiency, financial status, employment prospects, and potential need for long-term medical care.

Somalia has drawn particular scrutiny after a major welfare fraud investigation in Minnesota implicated Somali nationals and Somali-Americans, prompting tighter US oversight of visas connected to the country.

While Nigeria was not specifically flagged in the memo, its inclusion means stricter scrutiny for prospective Nigerian travellers seeking student, work, tourist, or family-based visas.

The State Department has not indicated when the review will end or whether humanitarian exemptions will be allowed, raising concerns about delays and uncertainty for travellers, students, and families. Observers warn the move could strain diplomatic relations and complicate people-to-people ties with the affected countries.