The U.S. State Department is reportedly preparing to centralize visa processing in Africa, reducing the number of embassies and consulates authorized to handle applications from nearly 50 to 20 regional hubs, according to The PIE News.

The reported move, also detailed by a different report, could force applicants in non-hub countries to travel across borders for interviews and processing, adding cost and logistical pressure for students, families and business travelers.

Education stakeholders warned that the shift could deepen existing concerns over visa delays and policy uncertainty, especially as African demand for international education remains strong. Nigeria alone recorded 21,847 students in U.S. colleges in 2024/25, according to Open Doors data reported by TheCable.

The 20 reported hubs include major cities such as Lagos, Accra, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Kampala and Kinshasa. While Washington says it regularly reviews overseas operations, critics argue the policy could weaken U.S. engagement with Africa at a time when rival education destinations are expanding scholarships, partnerships and recruitment across the continent.