Big update from early December still making waves: The US has paused processing of ALL immigration applications (green cards, citizenship, etc.) for nationals of 19 countries deemed "high-risk".
This includes pending cases even for people already in the US.
The 19 countries are mostly African/Middle Eastern: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen + others like Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, Venezuela.
Nigeria is NOT on the list good news for most students planning Master's/PhD in US.
But if you have family/friends from affected countries, this hits hard. Many Nigerians have connections in Somalia, Sudan, Eritrea communities.
Reason given: National security review after recent incidents.
What it means for you:
- US study visas (F-1) still processing normally for Nigerians
- Family/green card cases from listed countries on hold
- Extra scrutiny possible for everyone
Planning to japa? Now's still the time but stay updated.