BUJUMBURA, Burundi — The United States Embassy in Burundi has announced a temporary suspension of most visa categories for Burundian citizens, citing “repeated violations” and high visa overstay rates. The decision, which took effect on Monday, impacts many Burundians for whom opportunities abroad are seen as a vital path out of extreme poverty.
The suspension, which is a result of a presidential proclamation issued on June 9, 2025, bans the issuance of several types of new visas, including immigrant visas, visitor visas (B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2), student visas (F, M), and scholarly exchange visas (J).
This measure specifically targets new applicants for business, study, and family visits. However, it does not affect Burundians who already hold valid visas issued before June 9, 2025, Green Card holders, or certain diplomatic visa holders.
U.S. authorities justified the suspension by referencing a report from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that revealed concerning overstay rates.
The report indicated that 15.35% of Burundians on B-1/B-2 visas and 17.52% on F/M/J visas remained in the U.S. past their authorized period. The U.S. Embassy’s statement emphasized that non-compliance with visa regulations negatively impacts the image of the entire country.
This action is part of a broader tightening of U.S. visa policy in Africa. There has been no immediate public reaction from Burundian authorities.
Also Read: Visa applicants must submit 5-year social media history or risk denial, warns US Embassy
However, Foreign Minister Albert Shingiro had previously stated in June that the government was actively working with U.S. officials to improve consular data sharing and strengthen identity verification mechanisms in an effort to restore full access to visas.
According to the World Bank, Burundi is currently the poorest country in the world in terms of GDP per capita, with three out of every four of its nearly 14 million inhabitants living below the poverty line.
The suspension of visas represents a significant blow to those seeking to leave the country for better opportunities.
