US Suspends Visa Processing in Three African Nations
The United States government has halted all visa operations at its embassies in South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Uganda, citing the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the region. The suspension took effect on May 18, 2026, and applies to both immigrant and nonimmigrant visa categories, including tourist, student, and business visas.
According to the US Department of State, the decision reflects a commitment to maintaining public health and safety within the visa adjudication process. Applicants with scheduled appointments have been notified of cancellations. No new appointments can be booked until further notice.
Impact on Applicants and Fee Validity
Applicants who paid nonimmigrant visa application fees before the suspension will not lose their payments. Under existing policy, fees remain valid for 365 days from the date of receipt issuance. Interviews may occur after the 365-day mark if the appointment is booked before the deadline. However, no refunds will be issued for cancelled appointments; rescheduling will be offered once operations resume.
The suspension does not affect currently valid US visas. Holders of active visas issued before the pause may continue to travel under the terms of their documents.
No New Appointments Until Further Notice
The State Department confirmed that no visa appointments can be scheduled at the three embassies while the pause remains in effect. Once operations restart, embassies will update their websites and contact affected applicants to arrange new interview slots.
The US embassies in Juba, Kinshasa, and Kampala are directly affected. The move covers all visa categories, including tourist, student, business, and exchange visitor visas.
Background on Ebola Outbreak
The suspension is directly linked to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the region. The US government has taken similar measures in the past during public health emergencies. The State Department emphasized that the decision prioritizes the safety of visa applicants and embassy staff.
In related news, the US has also enforced strict exclusions under its Visa Waiver Programme (VWP), disqualifying certain travelers from visa-free entry based on recent travel history or dual nationality. These restrictions stem from the Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act.
