The United States has resumed visa processing for Nigerian and other foreign-trained doctors, reversing an earlier policy that had stalled applications under its travel restriction system, The New York Times has reported.
The previous directive, introduced earlier this year, suspended decisions on visa extensions, work permits, and green cards for citizens of about 39 countries. The move left many foreign-trained physicians unable to work, creating uncertainty across the healthcare sector.
However, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has now updated its guidelines to exempt medical doctors from the restrictions, allowing their applications to move forward.
Confirming the development, a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said, “applications associated with medical physicians will continue processing.
The policy reversal comes as the United States grapples with a growing shortage of healthcare professionals. Authorities estimate a current deficit of about 65,000 doctors, a figure projected to increase in the coming years.
Foreign-trained physicians account for roughly 25 per cent of the US medical workforce, with many serving in primary care roles, particularly in underserved communities.
The earlier freeze had forced some doctors into administrative leave, while others faced potential job losses due to prolonged visa delays.
Industry observers say the latest decision is expected to ease pressure on hospitals and enable affected doctors, including Nigerians, to continue their practice without disruption.
