US lifts visa freeze for Nigerian and other foreign doctors
The United States has reversed a previous policy that halted visa processing for foreign doctors, including Nigerians. This change allows affected medical professionals to continue their applications and work in the US. The decision comes as the country faces a significant shortage of healthcare workers. Foreign-trained doctors are a crucial part of the US medical workforce, especially in underserved areas.
What we know
- The US quietly reversed a policy that had frozen visa applications for Nigerian and other foreign doctors.
- The earlier policy, introduced in January, had halted decisions on visa extensions, work permits, and green cards for citizens of about 39 countries.
- The US Citizenship and Immigration Services has now updated its guidelines to exempt medical doctors from these restrictions.
- A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson confirmed that applications for medical physicians will continue processing.
- The policy shift is expected to ease pressure on hospitals and allow affected doctors to keep working in the US.
