Since the 2023 coup d’état in Niger, relations between Niamey and Washington have steadily deteriorated. The latest sign of tension came as the United States announced the suspension of visa services at its embassy in Niger, effective until further notice.

According to Reuters, the decision was confirmed on 26 July 2025 by a US State Department spokesperson and appeared in an internal memo the previous day. While no detailed explanation was provided, Washington cited “concerns regarding the government of Niger.” The suspension applies to all categories of visas, including tourism, business, study and immigration, with only diplomatic and official applications continuing to be processed.

At the same time, US consulates worldwide have been instructed to exercise heightened scrutiny when processing visa applications from Nigerien nationals. Washington notes that 8% of Nigerien visitors and 27% of Nigerien students overstay their visas.

Sharp decline in US-Niger trade

This suspension comes amid already weakened bilateral relations. Cooperation between the two countries, long focused on security, governance and development, was severely shaken by the 2023 coup. In 2024, Nigerien authorities demanded the withdrawal of US troops stationed on their soil, marking a major break. As a result, trade collapsed, falling from $125.2 million in 2022 to $63.7 million in 2023, and then down to $49.7 million in 2024, according to Trademap figures.

Decision worries citizens

On the ground, the suspension has fueled concern among many Nigeriens. Laouali Assoumane, an economic operator, views it as a strong political signal. “Every country is free to make its own decisions,” he says, “but this shows there is no real friendship between the States. It’s a matter of interest. If the United States believes it gains nothing from issuing visas to Nigeriens, then we too can choose not to grant visas to Americans.”

For Daouda, a Nigerien in his forties, it is mainly young people and students who are bearing the brunt.

“This suspension directly affects Nigeriens, especially those who dream of studying there. We don’t know the real reason behind it, but we hope it will be lifted before the new academic year begins, so that students are not prevented from pursuing their studies.”

Hassane Chipkaou, for his part, urges Nigeriens to see this crisis as an opportunity to redirect their ambitions.

“Nigeriens love going to the United States. But this suspension should make us realise that our country has a lot to offer. If we stay here and work together, Niger could become more attractive  than many other places.”

Unclear consequences 

The long-term consequences remain uncertain. For now, it is difficult to gauge the full social and economic impact of the suspension. Symbolically, however, the decision marks another turning point in an already fragile bilateral relationship. Only time will tell whether a diplomatic thaw will reopen the visa counters – and reassure the young people whose plans for study and mobility hinge on political decisions.