Just a week after the US announced a visa bond programme that could require applicants from more than 20 African countries, including Nigeria, to post refundable financial bonds of up to $15,000 as a condition for short-term business and tourist visas, the United States has now moved further by suspending all immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries.
According to a State Department spokesperson on Wednesday, the suspension is part of Washington’s intensifying immigration crackdown and is set to take effect from January 21.
A State Department cable cited by Reuters links the move to concerns that nationals from some of the affected countries have sought public benefits in the United States. In response, officials ordered a “full review” of policies, regulations, and guidance to ensure “the highest level of screening and vetting” for all U.S. visa applicants.
Countries affected cut across several regions. In Africa, those named include Nigeria, Egypt, Ghana, Algeria, and Somalia. Others span Latin America, including Brazil, Colombia, and Uruguay; the Balkans, with Bosnia and Albania; South Asia, including Pakistan and Bangladesh; as well as parts of the Middle East and the Caribbean.
Beyond immigration policy, this pause carries wider implications, particularly for startup founders from affected regions. African founders, especially from Nigeria and Egypt, might face disruptions travelling to the US for investor meetings, accelerators, conferences, and fundraising roadshows, at a time when access to global capital is already becoming more difficult. The move also affects tech talents from these regions who work primarily in the US.
This decision aligns with a broader policy direction. In November, U.S. diplomats were instructed to ensure visa applicants are financially self-sufficient and unlikely to become dependent on government subsidies during their stay, according to a State Department cable reviewed by Reuters.
However, this latest incident does not affect U.S. visitor visas, which remain in focus as the United States prepares to host the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics.
As explained by Tommy Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the State Department, “The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people.” This means immigrant visa processing for the 75 countries will remain paused while officials reassess procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals likely to rely on welfare and public benefits.
David Adubiina
