Following the faceoff with the Bola Tinubu government over the genocide against Christians, the administration of United States President, Donald Trump, has reinstated pressing visa policies against Nigerians and other foreign nationals.
Information released by the State Department makes it clear that the policy revives the controversial “public charge” rule, which targets applicants likely to depend on public benefits whilst their stay in the United States.
The memo issued by the State Department however urges consular officers to adopt holistic measures where visa applicants will be judged based on: multiple personal factors which includes health, age, financial stability, English proficiency, and long-term medical needs.
In addition, for many Nigerians seeking student, work, or family-based visas, the revived public charge rule could result in more denials and a prolonged processing times, especially for elderly applicants or those with limited financial resources.
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