An American travel content creator, Chris Joondeph, has raised concerns over the impact of the recently announced United States travel ban, saying it has left him unable to bring his Nigerian wife to the country.
The renewed travel restrictions followed a presidential proclamation signed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which expanded entry limitations to additional countries, including Nigeria. The policy has sparked anxiety among families caught in prolonged immigration processes.
American citizen speaks out
In a post shared on Instagram, Joondeph, a U.S. citizen married to a Nigerian woman, described the policy as deeply distressing for families like his. According to him, the proclamation took immediate effect and has created legal uncertainty for couples awaiting visa approvals.
He explained that he and his wife, Adenike, have been separated for months while waiting for her immigrant visa interview, which has been pending since May 2024.
Nigeria added to restricted list
Under the new proclamation, Nigeria was included among 15 countries facing partial entry restrictions. U.S. authorities stated that the affected countries were identified due to ongoing deficiencies in screening, vetting, and information-sharing procedures.
The policy builds on previous travel restrictions and is aimed, according to the White House, at protecting U.S. national security and public safety.
“No clear path” to the United States
In a video shared online, Joondeph said his wife currently has “no path” to enter the United States under the new rules.
He noted that the couple has been married for over a year and a half but has been forced to live apart due to visa delays and the new restrictions.
“As a U.S. citizen, I cannot bring my spouse to the United States—not even for a visit,” he said.
Emotional toll on families
Joondeph highlighted the emotional strain caused by the prolonged separation, noting that his wife has never visited the United States or met most of his family members.
“We have known each other for five years, and my wife has never set foot in my home country,” he said. “She has never met the majority of my relatives.”
Immigrant visas now affected
According to Joondeph, the latest proclamation goes beyond earlier travel bans, which primarily affected non-immigrant visas such as tourist, student, and business visas.
He said the new policy now affects immigrant visas, including those issued to spouses and children of U.S. citizens—categories that were previously exempt.
White House response
The White House has defended the decision, stating that while full restrictions remain on several high-risk countries, partial restrictions apply to others, including Nigeria. Exceptions reportedly exist for lawful permanent residents, current visa holders, diplomats, athletes, and individuals whose entry serves U.S. national interests.
Officials also noted that waivers may be granted on a case-by-case basis, though family-based visa exemptions have been narrowed due to concerns over fraud.
Despite these assurances, affected families say the policy has deepened uncertainty and prolonged painful separations, with no clear timeline for resolution.
Source: Gistreel
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