The United States has introduced sweeping visa restrictions affecting nationals of 39 countries, including Nigeria, under a presidential proclamation that took effect on January 1, 2026.
The policy, established by Presidential Proclamation 10998, imposes full visa suspensions on nationals of 19 countries and partial restrictions on nationals of another 19, alongside restrictions affecting holders of Palestinian Authority travel documents. The US Department of State cited national security concerns as the primary justification for the measures.
Nigeria’s inclusion on the partial restriction list has drawn particular attention because of the large number of Nigerians seeking US visas for tourism, business, education and immigration.
US Visa Ban 2026: Countries Facing Full Suspension
Under the proclamation, nationals of the following 19 countries face full visa suspensions, subject to applicable exceptions:
- Afghanistan
- Bhutan
- Cuba
- Eritrea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Libya
- North Korea
- Somalia
- South Sudan
- Sudan
- Syria
- Tokelau
- Venezuela
- Yemen
- Belarus
- Myanmar (Burma)
- Central African Republic
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
The restrictions also cover holders of Palestinian Authority travel documents, according to the policy summary provided.
US Visa Restrictions: 19 Countries Facing Partial Suspensions
A further 19 countries are subject to partial visa restrictions affecting specified categories. These include B-1/B-2 business and tourist visas, F and M student visas, J exchange visitor visas, and immigrant visas, as applicable under the proclamation.
The affected countries are:
- Angola
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Benin
- Burkina Faso
- Cambodia
- Cameroon
- Chad
- Republic of the Congo
- Equatorial Guinea
- The Gambia
- Laos
- Mauritania
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Sierra Leone
- Turkmenistan
- Vanuatu
The precise restrictions may vary by nationality and visa category, making it important for applicants to check the latest official US government guidance before submitting an application or making travel arrangements.
What Nigeria’s Inclusion Means for Visa Applicants
Nigeria’s inclusion in the partial restriction category is particularly important for prospective travellers, students, business visitors and intending immigrants.
Nigerians planning to visit the United States should establish whether their intended visa category is affected and whether any applicable exception covers their circumstances. Applicants should also distinguish between restrictions on visa issuance and separate rules governing admission into the United States.
The policy does not, by itself, mean that every Nigerian visa applicant is automatically ineligible for every US visa category. Its practical effect depends on the applicable provisions, the type of visa sought and any relevant exceptions.
Students preparing to study in the United States, visitors planning holidays or business trips, and families pursuing immigration options should review the current requirements before paying non-refundable fees or making travel commitments.
Who Is Exempt From the US Visa Restrictions?
The proclamation provides exceptions for certain categories of travellers, although eligibility depends on the specific provisions and individual circumstances.
Potentially exempt or specially treated categories include:
- Lawful permanent residents: Individuals who already hold US permanent resident status.
- Diplomatic visa holders: Certain travellers seeking entry under qualifying diplomatic classifications.
- Special Immigrant Visa holders: Eligible individuals covered by the applicable SIV provisions.
- Dual nationals: Individuals travelling on a passport issued by a country not subject to the relevant restrictions.
- Certain sporting participants: Individuals covered by specified exceptions for international sporting events.
Applicants should not assume that an exception automatically guarantees visa issuance or admission. They should confirm the applicable rules with the US Department of State or the relevant US embassy or consulate.
What Applicants Should Do Next
Anyone affected by the policy should consult official US government sources to determine how the restrictions apply to their circumstances.
The US Department of State’s visa information website and the US Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria are appropriate starting points for checking visa categories, eligibility requirements and updates.
Applicants should verify the latest guidance before scheduling interviews, submitting applications or making travel arrangements, particularly where a planned trip involves study, employment-related travel, family reunification or permanent immigration.
Conclusion
The US visa policy introduced under Presidential Proclamation 10998 affects nationals of dozens of countries through full and partial restrictions. Nigeria is among the countries subject to partial restrictions, placing particular importance on understanding which visa categories remain available and which exceptions may apply.
For Nigerians planning to travel to the United States, checking the current official rules is essential before proceeding with a visa application or finalising travel plans.