US Suspends Visa Processing for 75 Countries, Including Nigeria, Amid Stricter Immigration Rules

The US has suspended visa processing for 75 countries, including Nigeria, as part of a comprehensive review affecting tourist, student, and work visas. The move, announced by the US State Department, is tied to the enforcement of stricter provisions of US immigration law, specifically the public charge rule.

This policy shift allows consular officials to deny visas to individuals deemed likely to rely on public welfare programs. The decision follows heightened scrutiny on visa applications, particularly from Somalia, due to concerns over widespread abuse of taxpayer-funded welfare programs.

The suspension will remain in force indefinitely until the reassessment is completed.