State Department Realigns Visa Services in 25 African Countries to Regional Hubs
Effective August 1, 2026, the U.S. State Department has consolidated routine visa services at embassies across sub-Saharan Africa, directing applicants to regional visa processing centers. This affects visa applicants in 25 African nations seeking U.S. travel documents.
The U.S. Department of State has announced that it is realigning routine visa services at a number of consular posts in Africa to regional hubs. Beginning August 1, 2026, visa services will no longer be available at certain posts, and applicants will need to schedule appointments at the appropriate location.
As of August 1, 2026, they will realign routine visa services at embassies in Antananarivo, Madagascar; Abuja, Nigeria; Asmara, Eritrea; Bamako, Mali; Banjul, The Gambia; Brazzaville, Congo; Bujumbura, Burundi; Conakry, Guinea; Cotonou, and other posts in the region.
This consolidation means applicants who previously could interview at their local embassy must now travel to a designated regional hub. Processing for B-1/B-2 (visitor), student, and work visas will now occur at these centralized locations rather than at individual country posts.
If you are a resident of an affected country seeking a U.S. visa, you should now schedule your appointment at the regional hub that services your country. Check the State Department's website for your country's designated processing location and allow additional time for travel to the regional center.
Sources
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