Springfield, Mo. – A local family that has adopted children from Africa is confronting a prolonged immigration backlog that has kept them overseas for more than a year. Kaylee and James Wilson, who legally adopted their son Oli in March 2025, say new visa restrictions announced by the Trump administration have added months to the process.
Extended wait and its impact on the family
“Our entire family, apart from Oli, could leave tomorrow,” said James Wilson. “We wouldn’t be leaving as a family. We would be abandoning one of our children.” The Wilsons have been living in Nigeria while awaiting approval for Oli’s paperwork. They are now at the 14‑month mark and have been told the total wait could reach 27½ months.
Policy changes that slowed the case
In January 2026 the Trump administration implemented tighter visa issuance rules for nationals of certain countries, including Nigeria. The restrictions were introduced shortly after U.S. airstrikes against ISIS targets in northwest Nigeria on Dec. 25, 2025, which were coordinated with Nigerian authorities.
The Wilsons filed a request with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to expedite Oli’s case, but the request was denied. “We thought for sure that they would approve us to have our case sped up—and they didn’t,” Kaylee Wilson said.
Calls for systemic reform
The family is not seeking special treatment; they want broader changes to the adoption and immigration system that can keep children separated from their families for extended periods. “There needs to be reform for adoption, immigration cases in general,” Kaylee said. “It’s just so sad that children typically have to stay in orphanages while they wait. Not all families are able to move to countries like we are.”
While in Nigeria, the Wilsons are unable to work and have turned to documenting their experience online and selling goods through a website to make ends meet. Kaylee also gave birth to another child while abroad, a milestone she had hoped to experience back home in Missouri.
Seeking assistance from elected officials
The Wilsons have reached out to Missouri Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt for help, but have not yet received a resolution. Hawley’s office indicated it is looking into the case. USCIS has referred further questions to the U.S. State Department, and the family remains awaiting a response.
Faith and perseverance
Amid the uncertainty, the Wilsons rely on their faith and a commitment to family unity. “It’s a choice to choose joy, no matter your circumstances,” Kaylee said. “We’re in a trial, and some days are very difficult, but we stay strong.”
The family hopes their story will highlight the need for immigration reform that keeps families together and prevents prolonged separations for adopted children.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
