US reveals three categories of visa services affected in Nigeria

The United States has realigned routine visa services in Abuja and several African cities to designated regional hubs, effective August 1, 2026.

According to the US Department of State, the move is aimed at strengthening security screening, improving efficiency and ensuring more consistent visa adjudication.

According to Vanguard, the realignment affects routine immigrant and nonimmigrant visa services, including tourist, business and petition-based applications.

Applicants from affected countries are required to schedule appointments and pay fees at designated visa locations. The State Department said the changes do not mean embassies or consulates are closing, while valid existing visas remain unaffected.