Since the July 2023 coup that brought the military to power, Niger has pursued a more nationalist and anti-Western stance, distancing itself from traditional allies and leaning toward partnerships with Russia, Turkey, Iran, and China. Relations with France, its former colonial power, have deteriorated sharply, culminating in the expulsion of the French ambassador and the suspension of bilateral defense agreements.
Before the coup, Nigerien citizens were able to apply for Schengen visas directly through France’s consulate in Niamey. However, the breakdown in ties with Paris has forced many applicants to travel to neighbouring countries to complete visa formalities.
In an internal note dated August 20, confirmed by AFP, Niger’s foreign minister, Bakary Yaou Sangare, said that Niamey had requested European embassies operating in Niger be allowed to issue visas locally but claimed that no response was received.
“From now on, the embassies of Niger in Geneva, Ankara and Moscow are the only ones authorised to issue entry visas to Niger for nationals of the following countries: Italy, the Netherlands, the Federal Republic of Germany, the Kingdom of Belgium, the United Kingdom,” the minister wrote, describing the move as being “in application of the reciprocal principle.”
He clarified that holders of diplomatic or service passports from those countries could instead obtain visas at Niger’s embassy in Brussels.
The measure underscores the junta’s effort to recalibrate Niger’s foreign relations. Alongside its pivot toward Moscow, Niamey has sought stronger ties with Ankara and Tehran while also cultivating deeper engagement with Beijing.
The decision, while symbolically asserting sovereignty, is likely to complicate travel and diplomatic exchanges between Niger and several European nations, adding another layer of friction to already strained relations.