Niger’s ruling junta announced new restrictions on visa access for Europeans, citing difficulties its citizens face at European embassies abroad. Since seizing power in a 2023 coup, the military government has embraced nationalist politics, severed ties with France, and drawn closer to Russia. Previously, Nigeriens could apply for Schengen visas at the French consulate in Niamey, but relations soured after France’s ambassador was expelled.
In an internal note dated August 20, Foreign Minister Bakary Yaou Sangare complained citizens were forced to travel to neighbouring states for visas. He said Niger’s request that European embassies in Niamey issue visas directly had gone unanswered, leaving the government frustrated by the silence.
“From now on, the embassies of Niger in Geneva, Ankara and Moscow are the only ones authorised to issue visas,” Sangare declared.
The restriction targets nationals of Italy, the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, and the United Kingdom, applying a principle of diplomatic reciprocity. Those holding diplomatic or service passports may continue to obtain visas at Niger’s embassy in Brussels, the minister confirmed.
The decision highlights Niamey’s deliberate pivot away from Europe, turning instead toward Russia, Turkey, Iran, and China for deeper partnerships. By limiting European access, Niger symbolically underscores its rejection of old dependencies while aligning its foreign policy with emerging global powers.
