The United States has reversed its earlier decision to suspend visa processing for foreign-trained doctors, reopening opportunities for physicians from Nigeria and about 38 other countries to continue their applications.
According to a report by The New York Times, the restriction—introduced in January—had paused decisions on visa renewals, work permits, and green card applications for citizens affected by the US travel ban system.
The freeze created uncertainty across the healthcare sector, forcing some doctors onto administrative leave while others risked losing their jobs due to delayed approvals.
However, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services has now updated its policy, exempting medical doctors from the restriction and allowing their applications to move forward.
A spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security confirmed the change, stating that applications linked to medical physicians will continue to be processed.
This policy shift comes at a critical time, as the US faces a growing shortage of healthcare professionals. Authorities estimate a deficit of about 65,000 doctors—a number expected to increase in the coming years.
Foreign-trained doctors play a vital role in the US healthcare system, making up roughly a quarter of the medical workforce. Many of them serve in primary care, especially in rural and underserved communities where medical support is most needed.
