The United States Embassy in Nigeria has announced significant updates to its immigration visa process, which will take effect on January 1, 2025. As part of these changes, applicants with scheduled interviews will now be required to visit the Consulate General in Lagos twice during the application procedure.
In an update posted to its official X page, the embassy clarified that for those with interviews set for after the new year, a two-step visit process would be mandatory. “Applicants with interviews scheduled after January 1, 2025, are required to visit the Consulate-General in Lagos at least twice during the immigrant visa process,” the embassy stated.
The embassy explained that the first visit will consist of an “In-Person Document Review” with a consular staff member, designed to ensure that applicants are fully prepared for their visa interviews. This review offers a chance to check for any missing documentation ahead of the interview, thus helping to avoid delays in the application process.
The second visit will be the actual visa interview, conducted by a Consular Officer. The National Visa Center (NVC) will schedule this second appointment. The embassy further clarified that if an applicant fails to complete the In-Person Document Review before their interview, they will be required to reschedule their appointment.
These changes are intended to streamline the visa process and reduce delays associated with incomplete or incorrect documentation. The embassy also highlighted that this update is part of an ongoing effort to improve efficiency in its consular services.
In addition to the changes in the visa application process, the embassy also announced a shift to a new visa services provider for its consulates in Abuja and Lagos, a transition that was first revealed on August 26, 2024.
This move underscores the embassy’s commitment to enhancing the visa experience for applicants, with an emphasis on reducing wait times and improving overall service delivery.
Gathered by: Onoro Promise Edesiri