The United States government has reversed its earlier policy suspending visa processing for foreign-trained doctors, allowing physicians from Nigeria and about 38 other countries to resume their applications.

The decision follows months of disruption that left many affected doctors unable to practise.

Policy shift after months of disruption

The restriction, introduced in January, had halted visa extensions, work permits, and green card processing for citizens of nearly 39 countries under the US travel ban framework.

The move affected thousands of foreign-trained doctors, including Nigerians, many of whom were placed on administrative leave or faced uncertainty over their employment status.

Doctors now exempted

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services has now updated its guidelines, exempting medical doctors from the freeze.

A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security confirmed the change, stating that applications involving medical physicians will continue to be processed.

The update effectively restores pathways for affected doctors to continue working legally in the United States.

Healthcare shortage drives reversal

The policy reversal comes amid mounting pressure on the US healthcare system, which is grappling with a shortage of about 65,000 doctors.

Experts warn the gap could widen significantly in the coming years if staffing challenges persist.

Foreign-trained physicians account for roughly 25 percent of the US medical workforce, playing a critical role in primary care delivery, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Relief for Nigerian doctors

With processing now resumed, Nigerian doctors affected by the policy are expected to return to active practice or continue their application processes without further delay.

The development is also seen as a relief for US hospitals that rely heavily on foreign-trained professionals to sustain operations.