URGENT: New Restrictions Effective Jan 1, 2026
The US Department of State has announced a suspension of Immigrant Visas and restrictions on B1/B2 (Tourist), F1 (Student), and J1 (Exchange) visas for Nigerian nationals.
If you do not currently hold a valid visa, standard application routes are severely impacted.
What is Happening?
Under Presidential Proclamation 10998, the United States has restricted the issuance of most new visas for Nigerian citizens. Nigeria is among 19 countries affected by this measure, cited as a national security and immigration enforcement action.
This is NOT a complete border closure. However, for new applicants without an existing valid visa, most standard application routes are effectively closed.
Who is Impacted?
Note: the restrictions rolled out in two phases, non-immigrant visas from January 1, and immigrant visas from January 21, 2026.
- Tourists (B1/B2): Nigeria's FY2025 adjusted refusal rate has climbed to 57% (up from 46.51% in FY2024) per the US State Department, and as of Jan 1, 2026 new issuance is suspended (refusal rates, suspension announcement).
- Students (F1/M1) and Exchange Visitors (J1): New applications paused (effective Jan 1). Current students with valid F-1 visas can continue studies but should avoid traveling outside the US, as re-entry would require a new visa stamp.
- Immigrants (Green Cards): Processing for new family-based and employment-based immigrant visas paused (effective Jan 21).
- Work Visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1): Not explicitly covered by the proclamation, but Nigerian applicants report significant processing delays and increased scrutiny. Consult an immigration attorney for current status.
Who is Exempt?
The restrictions generally do not apply to:
- Existing US Green Card holders (Lawful Permanent Residents).
- Nigerians who already possess a valid US visa (until it expires).
- Spouses and children of US Citizens (under limited exceptions, expect delays).
- Diplomats and government officials (A and G visas).
Can I still apply?
The application portals remain open. However, TravelReady strongly advises against applying for a B1/B2 visa at this time unless you have a documented emergency. Denials are recorded on your immigration file and can make future applications harder, even after restrictions are lifted.
Strategic Advice for 2026
If you must travel, consider alternative routes or destinations. The US-Nigeria corridor is currently "high friction."
1. Protect Your Current Status
If you are currently in the US on a valid visa, do not overstay by even one day. Overstaying 180 days triggers a 3-year re-entry bar; overstaying 1 year or more triggers a 10-year bar. Repeat offenders can face a lifetime ban.
2. Consider the UK or Canada
While the US door closes, the UK and Canada remain open to qualified Nigerian applicants, though scrutiny is high. Building travel history to other countries can strengthen your profile for future US applications once the restrictions are lifted.
3. "Wait and Prepare"
Travel restrictions can change with policy shifts. Use this time to build your profile:
- Improve your financial standing (auditable bank records).
- Build travel history to non-restricted countries.
- Avoid "panic applications" that ruin your record.
TravelReady Verification
Our system tracks the latest policy changes from the US Department of State. We can assess your specific situation to see if you qualify for an Emergency Exemption.
Check Exemption EligibilityDisclaimer: This is a rapidly developing situation. TravelReady is an intelligence service, not a law firm. Always consult an immigration attorney for legal proceedings.