The United States has announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, including Nigeria and Ghana, in a sweeping move that tightens entry into the country.
A spokesperson for the US State Department confirmed on Wednesday that immigrant visa processing has been paused for the affected countries as authorities reassess screening and vetting procedures.
“The State Department is pausing immigrant visa processing for 75 countries,” the spokesperson said.
According to an internal memo obtained by Fox News Digital, consular officers have been instructed to refuse immigrant visas under existing law while the review is ongoing. The suspension takes effect from January 21 and will remain in force until further notice.
The directive affects 27 African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Senegal and South Africa; 22 Asian countries such as Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq and Pakistan; eight European countries, including Russia and Belarus; 13 countries in North America and the Caribbean; three South American nations; and Fiji in Oceania.
In total, the visa freeze spans five continents, affecting thousands of prospective immigrants seeking permanent residence in the United States.
US officials say the decision is driven by the need to strengthen national security and ensure more robust vetting, amid renewed debates over America’s immigration policies and border controls.
