US embassy issues new directive for Nigerian visa applicants

Beginning on January 1, 2025, the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria has reexamined its immigration visa procedures for foreign nationals.

During the interview process, candidates will now make at least two trips to the Consulate General in Lagos, the embassy said.

On Tuesday, the guideline was posted on its official X page.

It said, "During the immigrant visa application procedure, you must visit the Consulate General in Lagos at least twice if your interview is planned after January 1, 2025.

"The purpose of this new procedure is to help you get ready for your visa interview and to avoid major delays in the immigrant visa processing process."

The first visit to the US Consulate in Lagos would be for a "In-Person Document Review" with a consular staff member, according to additional information on the embassy's website. "This review ensures that applicants are prepared for their visa interviews," the statement read.

"The review helps to prevent delays in application processing by enabling applicants to obtain any missing documents prior to their visa interviews," it went on.

Conversely, the second interview is with a consular officer. The National Visa Center (NVC) will set the date for the interview with candidates.

"You will need to reschedule your appointment if you do not finish the In-Person Document Review prior to your visa interview."

The embassy said in July 2024 that it would be operating in Abuja and Lagos consulates will be handled by a new visa services provider, starting August 26, 2024.

The decision was announced on the official website and verified social media pages of the American embassy.