Freetown, Sierra Leone, June 9, 2025 –The United States Embassy in Freetown has announced the suspension of several nonimmigrant visa categories for Sierra Leonean nationals, citing a presidential proclamation currently in effect.
According to the notice, the embassy has halted the issuance of tourist, business, student, and exchange visitor visas, specifically those in categories B, F, M, and J.
However, it will continue to process immigrant visas for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens and adoptees. These include visa categories such as IR-1, CR-1, IR-2/CR-2, IR-5, IR-3, IR-4, IH-3, and IH-4.
The embassy clarified that this directive does not cancel visas that have already been issued. Holders of valid visas may still travel to the United States, provided they comply with immigration laws upon arrival.
“We strongly encourage all travelers to use their visa as intended and to avoid possible penalties and deportation for overstays,” the statement said.
This development is expected to impact many Sierra Leoneans, particularly students and business travelers, who now face delays or temporary ineligibility for new visa applications under the affected categories.
