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, allowing physicians from Nigeria and approximately 38 other countries to proceed with their applications.
The New York Times reported that the restriction, implemented in January, halted decisions related to visa extensions, work permits, and green card applications as part of a broader travel ban affecting nearly 39 countries.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has since updated its guidelines to exempt medical doctors from this suspension, facilitating the processing of their applications.
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security confirmed the update, stating that applications for physicians will now continue to be processed without delay.
This policy change arises amid a mounting healthcare workforce crisis in the U.S., where authorities estimate a shortage of approximately 65,000 doctors—a figure expected to rise in the coming years.
Foreign-trained doctors comprise roughly 25% of the U.S. medical workforce and are essential in providing care, especially in rural and underserved communities.
The previous visa suspension had resulted in many physicians being placed on administrative leave, with others facing potential job loss due to processing delays. The resumption of visa processing is anticipated to alleviate pressure on healthcare facilities, enabling affected doctors, including those from Nigeria, to resume their medical practice.
