The Trump administration has reinstated a sweeping global visa policy, making it harder for many foreign nationals—including Nigerians—to obtain U.S. visas. This move revives the controversial “public charge” rule, targeting applicants deemed likely to rely on public benefits in the United States.
What the New Visa Directive Entails
A newly issued State Department cable, obtained by Fox News Digital, instructs American embassies and consulates worldwide to enforce the policy immediately. According to officials, the directive restores a Trump-era standard that had been relaxed under President Joe Biden.
Under the new rule, U.S. consular officers are authorized to deny visas to anyone considered likely to depend on government assistance. Visa applicants will now be assessed on several personal factors, including:
- Health and medical conditions
- Age and retirement status
- English language proficiency
- Financial stability
- Potential need for long-term medical or institutional care
Consular officers are urged to adopt a holistic approach, taking into account the visa petition, financial affidavit, medical reports, and any information discovered during background checks.
“You must examine all aspects of the case, including the petition, visa application, medical report, affidavit of support, and any information uncovered in the course of screening and vetting,” the guidance reads.
This directive is part of the broader policy under which Trump orders tougher visa screening regime worldwide, emphasizing stricter assessments of applicants’ likelihood to rely on public benefits.
Increased Scrutiny for Older Applicants
Older visa applicants, particularly those nearing retirement age, are expected to face extra scrutiny. The directive specifically notes that long-term institutional care—such as staying in a nursing facility, which can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars annually—will play a major role in determining whether applicants are likely to become a public charge.
Background: The Public Charge Rule
The revived rule follows President Trump’s executive order titled “Ending Taxpayer Subsidisation of Open Borders,” which aims to ensure that taxpayer-funded benefits are not granted to unqualified aliens.
The cable emphasizes that the determination of a public charge rests solely on the judgment of each consular officer. Officers must conduct a “comprehensive and thorough vetting” before issuing a visa.
“There is no ‘bright line’ test. You must consider all aspects of the case and determine whether the applicant’s circumstances suggest that he or she is more likely than not to become a public charge at any time.”
A State Department official told Fox News Digital that the policy ends what the Trump administration calls the “Biden administration’s disastrous open borders agenda.”
Differences Between the Trump and Biden Approaches
While the U.S. State Department controls visa issuance, the Department of Homeland Security manages entry and status adjustments once applicants are inside the country. Both agencies operate under the same immigration laws, but the new guidance gives consular officers wide latitude to reject applicants on public charge grounds.
Under Biden’s 2022 version, the policy considered only direct cash assistance and long-term institutional care, excluding popular programs like:
- Food stamps (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Housing vouchers
- Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program
In contrast, the Trump-era rule expanded the definition to include a broader range of benefits. The new directive fully restores that stricter interpretation, reinforcing how Trump orders tougher visa screening regime globally.
Impact on Nigerians Seeking U.S. Visas
For Nigerians—from students and workers to elderly immigrants—the revived rule could result in:
- More visa rejections
- Longer processing times
- Increased scrutiny of finances and health
Applicants are advised to ensure all supporting documentation is accurate and complete to improve their chances under the stricter screening process.
Preparing for the New Visa Environment
Nigerians applying for U.S. visas under this policy should:
- Review Financial Records: Ensure income statements, bank balances, and affidavits of support are complete.
- Update Medical Documentation: Clearly document any long-term medical needs or conditions.
- Demonstrate Independence: Show proof of self-sufficiency through employment or financial support.
- Seek Expert Guidance: Immigration lawyers or accredited consultants can provide essential advice.
Conclusion
The reinstatement of Trump’s visa screening policy, with its strict public charge rule, marks a significant shift for Nigerians seeking to enter the United States. Older applicants and those with potential health or financial concerns face heightened scrutiny.
By understanding the guidelines and preparing thorough documentation, applicants can better navigate this tougher visa process where Trump orders tougher visa screening regime is now the standard.
