Effective October 10, 2025, the US Embassy in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso has temporarily paused all routine visa services, including both immigrant and nonimmigrant visa categories. This suspension affects visa applications for tourism, business, study, exchange programs, and other standard travel purposes.
What’s Affected
- Suspended Services:
- Immigrant visas
- Nonimmigrant visas (B-1/B-2, F, J, H, etc.)
- Continued Processing:
- Diplomatic and official visas: A-1, A-2, G-1, G-2, G-4, C-2, and C-3
Impact on Applicants
- Scheduled Appointments:
Applicants with existing appointments have been notified. The embassy will update its website when appointment scheduling resumes and will contact affected applicants to reschedule. - Valid Visas:
The pause does not affect currently valid visas. Travelers with valid visas may continue to use them as normal. - Refunds:
Visa application fees are non-refundable, but remain valid for 365 days from the date of payment. Applicants can reschedule interviews once services resume.
Reason for Suspension
The Department of State is conducting a global review of visa screening and vetting procedures to ensure alignment with US national security and public safety standards.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.
