Niger has announced a permanent ban on the issuance of visas to American citizens and an indefinite prohibition on their entry into the country.
The move is a direct response to the United States placing Niger on a list of countries whose citizens no longer enjoy preferential entry into US territory under new immigration restrictions.
The decision follows a US presidential proclamation issued on December 16, 2025, which expanded access controls for countries deemed to pose heightened security and migration risks, including Niger alongside Burkina Faso, Mali and South Sudan.
Niamey says the measure is an assertion of national sovereignty and a proportional response to Washington’s policy shift, as the United States undertakes a broader diplomatic and security realignment under its America First doctrine.
Reports from US sources indicate that nearly 30 American diplomats have been recalled globally, with Africa accounting for a significant share of affected postings, including Niger.
Nigerien authorities insist the ban reflects a firm stance to protect national interests amid evolving foreign policy priorities, as Africa emerges as the region most impacted by the new US visa restrictions and diplomatic drawdowns.
