Nigeria us visa news

Here are some recent updates on Nigeria-US visa news:

Recent Developments:

  1. Interview Waiver for Nigerian Citizens: In October 2020, the US Department of State announced that Nigerian citizens would be eligible for an interview waiver for certain non-immigrant visas, including B1/B2 (business/tourist) and F (student) visas. This means that Nigerian citizens may not need to appear in person for an interview at a US embassy or consulate.
  2. Increased Visa Fees: In January 2020, the US Department of State increased visa fees for Nigerian citizens, effective January 1, 2020. The new fees range from $160 to $265, depending on the type of visa.
  3. Biometric Data Collection: The US Department of State has introduced biometric data collection for Nigerian citizens applying for US visas. This includes fingerprinting and facial recognition technology.
  4. Visa Processing Times: The US Department of State has reported that visa processing times for Nigerian citizens have increased due to a high volume of applications. Processing times can range from 5-15 business days, depending on the type of visa and the workload of the embassy or consulate.
  5. Travel Restrictions: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the US government has imposed travel restrictions on Nigeria, including a ban on non-essential travel to the US. This ban applies to Nigerian citizens who are not US citizens, lawful permanent residents, or immediate family members of US citizens.

Tips for Nigerian Citizens Applying for US Visas:

  1. Apply Early: Apply for a US visa well in advance of your planned trip to ensure that you have enough time for processing and to avoid any last-minute issues.
  2. Ensure Eligibility: Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for the type of visa you are applying for.
  3. Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have all the required documents, including a valid passport, proof of payment, and any additional documents required for your specific visa type.
  4. Be Prepared for Biometric Data Collection: Be prepared to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and facial recognition technology, as part of the visa application process.
  5. Check Visa Processing Times: Check the visa processing times for your specific embassy or consulate to plan accordingly.

Useful Resources:

  1. US Department of State: The official website of the US Department of State provides information on visa requirements, application procedures, and travel restrictions.
  2. US Embassy in Nigeria: The official website of the US Embassy in Nigeria provides information on visa requirements, application procedures, and travel restrictions specific to Nigeria.
  3. Nigerian Immigration Service: The official website of the Nigerian Immigration Service provides information on visa requirements, application procedures, and travel restrictions specific to Nigeria.

I hope this information is helpful!