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In January 2026, the United States Department of State announced a significant change to its immigration policy, pausing immigrant visa processing for nationals from 75 countries, including Nigeria and Ghana. This move has implications for Nigerian travelers, families, students, and long-term relocation plans, but it doesn’t mean that all travel to the U.S. has stopped. Here’s what you need to know.
Starting January 21, 2026, the U.S. began suspending immigrant visa processing (visas that allow people to live permanently in the U.S.) for citizens of 75 countries. This pause will continue indefinitely while the U.S. reviews screening procedures and policies related to immigration and public welfare.
This pause means that immigrant visas (green cards) will not be issued to affected nationals, even if applications and interviews have already taken place, until further notice. Consular officers have been instructed not to complete final visa issuance for these cases.
The suspension targets 75 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East. In Africa alone, the list includes Nigeria among others such as Ghana, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Ethiopia.
Other regions on the list include nations such as Brazil (South America), Bangladesh and Pakistan (Asia), and Antigua and Barbuda (Caribbean). Dual nationals holding a passport from a country not on the list may be exempt when applying for immigrant visas.
It’s important to understand that this directive currently affects immigrant visas — those for permanent residence. Non-immigrant visas like B-1/B-2 visitor visas, student visas, and work visas (where allowed) may still be processed, although additional screening and verification are now expected.
So if you’re planning a holiday, short-term visit, or business trip, those travel plans may still proceed normally — but preparation and documentation are more important than ever.
Visa officers are now reviewing cases more rigorously, which means many applications — especially those for temporary stays — may take longer to process than before.
If you have travel plans, start your visa application early and ensure all documentation is accurate.
If you or your loved ones were planning to relocate permanently or join family members in the U.S., expect delays. Immigrant visa processing won’t move forward until the pause is lifted — and no official timeline has been announced.
The U.S. government says the pause is part of a policy review meant to ensure that people entering the country permanently do not become dependent on public assistance programs and meet financial self-sufficiency standards.
Critics of the policy argue that it places undue hardship on families and legal migrants and that it could have lasting impacts on communities, businesses, and international relations.
If you’re planning travel to the U.S. — whether for tourism, study, or business — here are some helpful tips:
Start your visa process as soon as possible — especially if you need more supporting documentation.
Bank statements, invitation letters, proof of travel plans, and ties to your home country help strengthen your application.
If your travel date is fixed and the U.S. visa timeline is uncertain, consider alternate destinations that are visa-friendly or visa-free for Nigerians.
U.S. immigration policies are evolving — keep checking official sources and consult with travel professionals for the latest requirements.
At Links & Tours Ltd., we support Nigerian travelers with all aspects of international travel planning — even when policies change.
We provide:
🛂 Visa advisory services — including documentation checklists and pre-application help
✈️ Flight bookings and itinerary planning
📆 Travel timeline planning to avoid last-minute issues
🌍 Alternate travel destination suggestions for flexibility
💬 Ongoing updates and travel alerts for policy changes
Whether you’re planning a short visit, study abroad, business trip, or future relocation, we help you stay prepared — and travel smarter.
If you’re planning international travel, especially to the U.S, reach out to Links & Tours Ltd. for guidance, bookings, and peace of mind.
Contact us today to start planning your next international journey.