Niger is restricting visa access for several European citizens, who will now have to apply to Geneva, Ankara, or Moscow. The measure, justified by reciprocity, addresses the difficulties encountered by Nigeriens in their dealings with European embassies. It particularly concerns Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and the United Kingdom.

Nigerien authorities have just made a diplomatic decision that has not gone unnoticed. From now on, only three locations (Geneva, Ankara, and Moscow) are authorized to issue visas to certain European nationals wishing to travel to Niger. Niamey has justified this measure in the name of reciprocity, given the persistent difficulties encountered by its own citizens in their dealings with European embassies.

In an internal memo dated August 20, Nigerien Foreign Minister Bakary Yaou Sangaré highlighted the obstacles Nigeriens face in obtaining European visas. With no direct issuance in Niamey, applicants must cross borders to submit their applications in neighboring countries. This situation is deemed unacceptable by the authorities, who claim to have unsuccessfully sought authorization from European embassies in Niger. It is in response to this "imbalance" that Niamey has chosen to limit its own issuance points in Europe.

Countries affected by the measure

The restriction now applies to nationals of Italy, the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, and the United Kingdom. For these citizens, Nigerien visa applications must be made at one of three designated embassies: Geneva, Ankara, or Moscow. An exception remains in Brussels, however, where the Nigerien embassy remains authorized to issue visas only for holders of diplomatic and service passports.

This decision comes amid a tense climate of foreign relations. Since the July 2023 coup, Niamey has engaged in a series of diplomatic standoffs, particularly with France. The expulsion of the French ambassador in August 2023, followed by the closure of the French embassy and consulate, marked a profound rupture. Nigerien authorities blame Europeans for their inaction on the visa issue and are now calling for a more sovereignist foreign policy.

A strategic realignment of Niger

Alongside its distancing from Western powers, Niamey has strengthened its ties with new partners: Russia, Iran, Turkey, and China. This redefinition of its alliances is also reflected in its management of consular and migration relations. By restricting access to its visas, Niger is sending a clear message: it intends to treat European countries as equals and impose its own conditions.