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If you are planning to travel to the United States for tourism, business, study, or medical reasons, you need a U.S. visa before departure. This guide provides a detailed step-by-step breakdown on how to apply for a U.S. visa in Nigeria, including documents required, visa types, and key procedures.
TJ News Nigeriareports that while U.S. visa policies have recently changed, especially regarding validity and entry limits for Nigerian applicants, the application process remains the same.
Types of U.S. Visas for Nigerians
Before applying, you must determine the correct visa type for your travel purpose:
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- B1/B2 (Visitor Visa) – For tourism, medical treatment, business meetings
- F1 (Student Visa) – For studying in a U.S. institution
- J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) – For cultural or educational exchange programs
- H1B (Work Visa) – For temporary employment
- K1 (Fiancé Visa) – For Nigerians marrying U.S. citizens
- Immigrant Visas – For permanent residence (Green Card)
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a U.S. Visa in Nigeria
Step 1: Complete the DS-160 Online Visa Application
- Go to the DS-160 form website
- Fill out the Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form DS-160
- Ensure all details match your passport
- Upload a recent passport photo (white background, not more than 6 months old)
- After submission, print the confirmation page with barcode – You will need it for your visa interview
Step 2: Pay the Visa Application Fee
- Current Non-Immigrant Visa (B1/B2) fee: $185 (≈ ₦250,000 at parallel rate)
- Payment methods:
- Online through GTBank’s US Visa Fee Portal
- Over the counter at GTBank branches
- After payment, keep your receipt number — you’ll need it to schedule your interview
Step 3: Create a Profile on the U.S. Visa Appointment Website
- Visit: www.ustraveldocs.com/ng
- Create a profile using your email address
- Enter your DS-160 confirmation number and visa fee receipt number
- Choose a delivery method for your passport (e.g., DHL pickup)
Step 4: Schedule a Visa Interview Appointment
- You will schedule two appointments:
- VAC (Visa Application Center) for fingerprinting and photo capture
- Embassy/Consulate interview
Locations:
- U.S. Embassy, Abuja: Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive, Central Business District
- U.S. Consulate, Lagos: 2 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island
You’ll need:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- DS-160 confirmation
- Visa fee receipt
- Appointment confirmation
Step 5: Attend Your Visa Interview
At the consulate or embassy, bring:
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- Original passport
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Appointment letter
- Payment receipt
- Supporting documents, such as:
- Employment letter or business documents
- Bank statements or financial support proof
- Invitation letters (if applicable)
- Academic transcripts or I-20 for students
💡 Important Tip: Be honest and concise during the interview. The officer determines eligibility based on U.S. immigration laws.
Step 6: Visa Decision and Passport Collection
- After your interview, your passport will be:
- Returned via courier if approved (with visa stamped)
- Returned with a refusal letter if denied
You can track passport status on:
👉 www.ustraveldocs.com/ng
Recent Updates for Nigerian Applicants (2025)
TJ News Nigeria learnt that the U.S. now issues only 3-month single-entry visas to Nigerians due to concerns over:
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- Visa overstays
- Difficulty verifying applicant records
Despite this, Nigeria still offers 5-year multiple-entry visas to U.S. citizens.
📌 Read full report here:
➡️ U.S. Revokes Multiple Entry Visas for Nigerians: What You Need to Know
Checklist: Required Documents for U.S. Visa Application
- Valid international passport (minimum 6 months)
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa fee receipt
- Appointment confirmation
- 2 recent passport photos (51mm x 51mm)
- Supporting documents depending on visa type:
- Job letter, bank statement, school admission letter, travel itinerary, etc.
Processing Time
- DS-160: Instant submission
- Interview wait time: 1 to 6 weeks depending on embassy
- Visa approval: Usually within 3 to 7 working days after interview
Contact & Help
U.S. Visa Application Centers in Nigeria
- Phone: +234-1-227-8955
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.ustraveldocs.com/ng
Related Articles on TJ News Nigeria:
- Tinubu Gives Order as FG Reveals Two Reasons Behind U.S. Visa Review for Nigerians
- U.S. Visa Interview Questions and How to Answer Them (Latest Update)
- Nigerian Passport Renewal in 2025: New Rules and Fees
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