By A Correspondent| The United States has effectively shut the door on thousands of Zimbabweans seeking to travel, study, work or settle in America after suspending the issuance of several major visa categories, including student, business, tourist and immigrant visas.
In a notice issued by the US Embassy in Harare, the suspension takes effect from January 1, 2026, following Presidential Proclamation 10998, which restricts the entry of foreign nationals in the name of protecting US national security.
Under the new measures, Zimbabwean nationals will no longer be issued B visas (business and tourist), F (student), M (trainee), J (exchange visitor), K (fiancé) visas, as well as all immigrant visas, dealing a major blow to students, professionals, families and travellers with plans to enter the United States.
The embassy said affected applicants may still submit visa applications and attend scheduled interviews, but warned that they may be found ineligible for visa issuance or admission into the US.
However, Zimbabweans who already hold valid US visas will not be affected by the new directive and may continue travelling.
The US Embassy in Harare has also confirmed that it remains closed to routine immigrant and non-immigrant visa services, except for most diplomatic and official visas.
As a result, Zimbabwean applicants must now schedule visa interviews at the US Consulate General in Johannesburg, South Africa, a move likely to increase costs and waiting times for applicants.
The embassy further warned that visa application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, even if a visa is ultimately denied.
