The United States has reversed a policy that had temporarily halted visa processing for foreign-trained doctors, allowing physicians from Nigeria and about 38 other countries to resume their applications.
According to The New York Times, the restriction introduced in January had paused decisions on visa extensions, work permits, and green card applications under a broader travel ban framework affecting nearly 39 countries.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has now updated its guidance, exempting medical doctors from the suspension and permitting their applications to move forward.
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that immigration applications involving physicians will continue to be processed.
The policy change comes amid a worsening shortage in the US healthcare system, with authorities estimating a deficit of about 65,000 doctors — a gap expected to grow in the coming years. Foreign-trained doctors account for roughly a quarter of the US medical workforce, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
The earlier suspension had left many doctors in uncertainty, with some placed on administrative leave or facing delays that threatened their employment.
The latest reversal is expected to ease pressure on hospitals and health facilities while restoring processing pathways for affected medical professionals, including Nigerians.
