New US Immigration Policy Impacts African Nations

Last modified on July 21, 2025 at 3:08 pm

Global Reciprocity Realignment

Visitors to the US from Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana and Nigeria are facing new restrictions on visa conditions following an announcement from the US Department of State.

The update means that the majority of non-immigrant visits will now be single-entry and only issued for a period of three months. This is in contrast to the previous permissions that allowed multiple entries for at least two years.

US officials claim the changes are part of a “global reciprocity realignment” between the US and the four countries. It is understood that the changes are to ensure the affected countries are meeting key criteria aimed at protecting the US immigration system such as issuing secure travel documents, managing visa overstays and sharing security data

Reach out to IAS for expert support in applying for visas to travel to or work in the US.

Impact For Academic and Cultural Travellers

Nigeria has confirmed it will continue to offer long-term multiple entry visas to US citizens, while Ghana has stressed it has issued more than 25,000 multi-entry visas to visitors from the US in 2025.

A statement from the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said: “We want to reiterate that the US government’s claim of reciprocity as the reason for its current visa policy towards Nigeria does not accurately reflect the actual situation.”

Although there has been no official reaction from Cameroon and Ethiopia, it is understood that US citizens are still entitled to long multi-entry visas to both countries.

There are concerns the changes could impact significantly those hoping to travel to the US for academic and cultural reasons as it will apply to a number of key visas including the B-1/B-2 (tourist/business), F (student), and J (exchange).

How Can IAS Help?

If you are planning to move to the US from Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia or Cameroon reach out to IAS for the latest advice on which US visa is the most suitable following the changes.

The experienced team at IAS are on hand to support you in applying for the correct US visa, checking documentation, advising on compliance or assisting with extending your stay overseas.

Contact IAS today for personalised advice on +1 844 290 6312 or use our live chat to keep up-to-date with all US immigration policy changes.

Do you need help with your US multi-entry visa application? Our lawyers can assist you.

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Written by Immigration Advice Service

Editorial Team

This content was developed by a team of researchers, editors, and lawyers who provide valuable information to those with immigration queries.

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