US Resumes Visa Processing For Nigerian, Other Foreign Doctors
The United States has reversed a policy that previously suspended visa processing for foreign-trained doctors, paving the way for physicians from Nigeria and about 38 other countries to continue their applications.
A report by The New York Times noted that the restriction, introduced in January, had halted decisions on visa extensions, work permits, and green card applications for citizens of nearly 39 countries under the US travel ban framework.
However, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services has now updated its guidelines, exempting medical doctors from the suspension and allowing their applications to proceed.
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security confirmed the development, stating that applications linked to medical physicians will continue to be processed.
The policy shift comes amid a deepening healthcare workforce crisis in the US, with authorities estimating a shortage of about 65,000 doctors—a figure projected to rise in the coming years.
Foreign-trained doctors account for roughly 25 per cent of the US medical workforce, playing critical roles in primary care, especially in rural and underserved areas.
The earlier visa freeze had forced some physicians into administrative leave, while others risked losing their jobs due to delayed approvals.
With the resumption of processing, the decision is expected to ease pressure on healthcare facilities and enable affected doctors, including Nigerians, to continue their medical practice.
Hafsoh Isiaq is a graduate of Linguistics. An avid writer committed to creative, high-quality research and news reportage. She has considerable experience in writing and reporting across a variety of platforms including print and online.
