The United States is reducing its visa-processing footprint in Africa by closing operations at 30 embassies and consulates, leaving only 20 designated hubs across the continent. The move, announced by the Trump administration, aims to streamline consular operations and align with stricter immigration enforcement goals. Only locations like Accra, Nairobi, Lagos, and Addis Ababa will continue processing visa applications for African citizens seeking to enter the U.S.

Affected countries include Botswana, Madagascar, Sierra Leone, and the Central African Republic, among others. Citizens from these nations will now need to travel to one of the remaining 20 hubs—sometimes in distant or hard-to-reach countries—to apply for a U.S. visa. This adds significant cost and logistical challenges, especially for those already burdened by high application fees and complex procedures.

The change follows earlier policies requiring $15,000 bonds for certain African travelers and restricting visa access for nationals from several countries. While U.S. citizens can still access emergency services in closed locations, the burden falls heavily on African applicants. Critics warn the policy will deepen family separations and make legal immigration even more difficult for those hoping to obtain green cards through consular processing.