The Trump administration in the United States has introduced new visa restrictions affecting 75 countries worldwide, including 26 nations across Africa. The measures primarily target immigrant visas, commonly known as "green cards," though certain categories of tourist and student visas may also be impacted. The suspension is set to begin on January 21 and will remain in place while the State Department undertakes a review of its visa processing procedures.

Countries Exempted Due to Strategic Ties

Mozambique has been excluded from new restrictions, identified as one of only four African countries granted exemption because of their "significant economic, commercial or diplomatic relations with the United States." The other exempted African nations are South Africa, Angola, and Madagascar. According to the U.S. State Department, additional African countries were left off the list because they were exhibits "a satisfactory level of development, stability and cooperation, low migratory pressure, or strategic diplomatic and economic relations with the United States."

Political Sensitivities and Migration Factors

Some countries were excluded on political grounds, with nations such as Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso deemed "politically sensitive” following recent military coups. Others, including Botswana, Namibia, and Gambia were classified as stable and cooperative and therefore not subject to the restrictions. Smaller states, such as Lesotho, Eswatini, and Sao Tome and Principe, were also excluded, largely because their citizens show limited interest in seeking employment in the United States, highlighting the varied criteria behind the administration’s visa policy decisions.