A new decision by the U.S. administration is directly affecting Togolese nationals living in the United States or undergoing immigration procedures. On Tuesday, December 2, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the immediate suspension of all pending asylum applications, as well as certain residency petitions, for nationals of 19 countries designated as “high-risk,” including Togo.
According to the memorandum, all affected cases will now undergo a thorough re-evaluation, which may include a mandatory interview even for procedures that previously did not require one. The stated objective is to reinforce national security screening.
In addition to Togo, the list includes: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.
Reactions and Criticism
The measure is based on Presidential Decree 10949, signed in June 2025, which introduced heightened restrictions for nationals of these countries. USCIS cites previous gaps in vetting procedures and recent cases involving suspects linked to planned attacks on U.S. soil.
The decision has sparked strong criticism in Togo. Political analyst Dany Ayida expressed dissatisfaction following the announcement, stating that “Togo is considered a rogue state. Togolese leaders have no credibility to defend the interests of their compatriots before the U.S. Administration.”
For the opposition, the move highlights the limits of the Togolese government’s international credibility at a time when the country is already facing internal tensions over constitutional reforms and the consolidation of power under the new Fifth Republic.
All Togolese seeking asylum or awaiting changes to their immigration status may now face significant delays as USCIS conducts its comprehensive review. The measure is expected to complicate access to protection or residency permits for those affected, prolonging uncertainty for Togolese families living in the United States.
U.S. tightens immigration review for 19 countries, including Togo
