₦airaland Forum

My case was similar to yours. Were the 3 times around the same time?

missusadey:
Chai! I'll still keep praying.
And I'm even now wondering why I got refused status. The last visa I got was used 3 times and on an average of 2.5 weeks. I still used the visa this last December before it expired in February.

I know people will say getting a visa is not guaranteed but there should be a basis for refusal

You don’t need a visa for Rwanda, just book your flight and go.

Imustreturn:
my bro.. please is there a site like this for Rwanda? I want to apply for EAST AFRICA VISA. I SAW VISA FEE FOR $100 THE SITE I WAS APPLYING LATER Wrote $219.

I don't understand again

For my first US visa (2022) I was approved on an 18 month old ds160. I was ignorant of the expiry and no one complained at the interview. These things are not as hard as people think. They are human beings and somethings are permissible. I don’t believe the “losing value/respect” thesis.

Should you update the ds160 when it’s about expire? YES!

At 6 - 11 months, NO!

Efetobore1980:
Greetings.
A submitted DS-160 is valid for one year, and your 5 - month old DS-160 is still in tandem with the U.S embassy acceptance policy.

But, from 6 - Month old, a submitted DS-160 will begin to lose respect (sorry for the personification) in the eyes of the U.S. embassy because they believe that some of your circumstances must have changed and might need to be updated.

■ Hence, you are even expected to go with a recent passport photo that is not more than 6 months when attending your visa interview. 🙄

Togo, by far more corrupt than Nigeria!

I did not cancel, I made a payment in November 2024, but could not go beyond the payment page because of the initial glitches they had.
I sent emails about my payment issues with no response till Feb 2025, when I was asked to go submit my passport for IW (same day).

The email I got in April (as above) was after my visa approval. I kind of believe it was an automated message for people who complained generally about payment issues.

Again, double check

Wealthypips:
This is same response i got, did you make payment as well and how is it when you cancel and create new sir/ma? Did it work out fine. Tho I’ve sent out email to all the mails I got on this site before I make any move

I will still advise them to follow your advice to be double sure. But please see the email I got from LagosNIV in April.

Efetobore1980:
Hello.
Don't follow the customer helpline from avits (ticket raising feedback) as they are not the one to sort out MRV payment issues. U.S embassy has a way of sorting out or verifying all mrv payment issues internally.

In this respect, you have to follow the instructions of VISA NAVIGATOR by emailing the U.S embassy directly. If you cancel that appointment you will very likely pay another visa fees. 👍

@Efe,

In case you have not seen this;
https://punchng.com/just-in-nigeria-among-countries-facing-possible-new-us-travel-ban/

IMO, nothing is impossible, but some things are unlikely.

Not impossible that we all get indiscriminately and absolutely banned, however unlikely. I believe if a ban is implemented, issued visas will be valid and all pending visa cases will automatically be denied. Just an opinion sha.

All in all, we need to start fixing Nigeria.

Efetobore1980:
Hello Magnet.
To start with, Nigeria is not part of the list of the countries on travel ban/watch-list so all U.S visa applications are still going normal as B4.

** To answer your question, if a travel ban is placed on Nigeria then all visa applications to USA would be placed on absolute/ extreme scrutinity. B4 this time , some targeted politicians or extremists would have been placed on total travel ban which means that they cannot even near the U.S. embassy.

** As for other citizens , you cannot tell me that all Nigerians are extremists or bad politicians, so in that respects visa processing activities would continue for students, those going for business , medicals or immigrant visas etc . It is impossible for all the citizens of a country to be affected by a travel ban. The U.S embassy only wants to sieve out the evil perpetrators . 👍

Game of Thrones

Fake news

Force as how?

ogechilyn:
Well, I just came back from the place, wish I did my research on nairaland before going, but I must say they are scammers. The force you to drop you money or check, someone even told me, he/she is coming to the house to pick the check. I even ask them before going if there is any payment and I was told no, only to get there and they ate demanding huge amounts of money with force. .

References

https://www.travelwithapen.com/countries-you-can-visit-with-a-valid-us-visa/

https://www.travelwithapen.com/countries-to-visit-with-a-uk-visa/

+ I know people that have done it.

therealprinceuk:
Are you sure about that? Coz i already have those listed visas.

FYI, for Mexico you don’t need a visa if you have a valid US visa. Another great thing is that Mexico practices Jus soli.

Mexico has one of the world’s strongest passports.

Do you own research.

Reference:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexican_nationality_law

Consultvenek:
Chances of this is so slim so I will not advise you take this route if you still would love to visit the states in the future. If you want to give birth try Brazil or Mexico.
Safe delivery to you in advance.

.

With those responses, you honestly deserve it.

Hayormide212:
Let me Put this to Encourage someone!! ©️Moshkom.

✅ VISA APPROVED (Direct Approval)
📍 Lagos Embassy
🗓️ 13/05/2025
🪟 Window 3
🎯 First Attempt
💰 COA: $57,555
🎓 Funding: Fully Funded
📉 Deficit: $0
📚 PhD in Physics
🏫 University of Florida

My interview lasted for about 12 minutes.

I want Thank God first for this Journey.

My interview was scheduled 8am but I got to the embassy by 6:45am I knew where to go to because I visited there a day B4. Before I was interviewed a lot of blues were seen flying.. I just want to say this *Please do not CRAM* just know your story


Interview proper

Vo: pass me your i-20 and you passport please.

Me: here U go, good morning sir (with a smile)

Vo: what do U want to do in the US?

Me: I am going for my PhD program in physics with a concentration in computational physics at the University of Florida (I stuttered in the first three words).

Vo: how many schools did you apply to?

Me: I applied to three schools, University of Florida, University of Pittsburgh, University of Alabama....(he didn't let me to continue be asking..)

Vo: so why this school?

Me: I choose University of Florida because of the perfect alignment of my interest with prof Bleep whose research focuses on the use of computational techniques such as DFT calculations and ML simulations to understand the properties of materials.. this research is relevant for me to address the limitations in using and relying on only traditional experimental methods for research in Nigeria

Vo: so how's that? (I was very confused with this question but this point he was staring at me.. so I figured he wanted to know what areas computational techniques could address this limitations)

Me: In my recent research on synthesis of copper antimony sulfide nano crystals where I worked as a research assistant......we needed to substitute different hilides to form halogen with sulfur, we could do that with experimental methods which would take a lot of... But material studio a computational tool could do that and simulate results in hours... (he nodded, I guessed he was pleased)

Vo: (looks at my I20 )how will you be funding this program?

Me: I got a graduate teaching assistantship which covers my tuition, living expenses and health insurance and I got this by submitting a competitive (I didn't want to say this word at first but it came out anyway) application consisting of my transcript which reflects my strong academic background where I graduated at the top of my class with a CGPA of Bleep, my statement of purpose, 3 letters of recommendation from my undergraduate professors and I was invited for an interview by prof Bleep my graduate coordinator and prof Bleep, where I elaborated how my research aligned with prof Bleep and why I choose this school (At this point he was typing really fast, and there was this little silence so I asked)

Me: can I Tell you about my research (even though I knew I have said it a lot of times b4)

Vo: No it's fine.(After some time)

Vo: so what will you be doing after graduation?

Me: Immediately after my graduation I will be coming back to my Alma mata federal university of technology where I currently work as a graduate research assistant to take up a senior researcher role which will position me to train teach and educate young scientist in the use of computational techniques as a substitute to experimental methods, I will.....vo cuts in

Vo: slow down...(With a smile)

Vo: have you been to Gaza before?

Me: No officer, I have not (me too with a smile)

Vo: Alright, I will be approving Ur visa, this paper will tell U how to collect Ur passport.... (I no hear anything again)

I took the paper and ran 😂😂 before they call me back, because this person had denied about 18 persons B4 me. All my time in the consulate I only saw him giving one approval.

And to God.... Thank you Jesus 🙏🏼🙏🏼

It’s only visa free if you have a US/UK/Shengen visa.

Take note, that getting to DR requires transit in one of those countries.

therealprinceuk:
Hello everyone,
Are there any Nigerians currently living in the Dominican Republic or who have visited recently?

I’m planning a family trip to the Dominican Republic in a few months as part of our 2025 summer holiday, and I would appreciate some clarity on the visa process for Nigerian passport holders.

I’ve come across conflicting information online — some sources suggest visa on arrival is available, while others state that a visa must be obtained in advance. Unfortunately, I haven’t found any official or reliable source that confirms the exact requirements.

The fact that the Dominican Republic does not have an embassy in Nigeria makes it even more confusing.

If you've visited the Dominican Republic recently or are currently residing there, I’d be grateful if you could share your experience with the visa application process and any tips that might help.

Thank you in advance for your insights.

God bless

Share pictures please, might try it out.

Rxick:
My family and I recently returned from a trip to the USA, and one of the most memorable places was Keystone Lake in Oklahoma. If you love nature, water recreation and are looking for a place to recharge from the hustle and bustle of the city, you should definitely check it out. Pay special attention to the boat rental at Pier 51 - excellent service, friendly staff, all equipment in perfect condition. We rented a pontoon for the whole day - had a lot of fun, rode on the lake, enjoyed the sun, swam and even had a picnic right on the water. The boat was clean, comfortable and safe - even the children were comfortable. The rental price, by the way, is quite reasonable, especially if you split it among a group.

Cost of manufacturing is different. On quality, the Nigerian coke is probably healthier. It’s same concentration anywhere in the world but the water and sweetener varies. In Nigeria, it’s cane sugar while in N.America it’s the far more dangerous and addictive high fructose corn syrup. The former is a better evil

bottom line avoid both.

DeZoro:
I entered a mall in Toronto to.buy coke and the amount will amaze you. Two dollar and forty nine cent ($2.49).

Using the price of 50cl Coke in Canada versus Nigerian which is about Four Hundred naira (N400), I am suspecting that the ingredients are different combination. It means the Coke sold in Nigeria malls and shop are adultereted or of less ingredients.

I have attached the receipt of the Coke for verification in case you doubt..

This thing is now becoming very common. We need to fix Nigeria o

NotsonewMary:
Hi, is the standard processing for IW now “Refusal” status right after “Application Received”?. My mum’s status was updated to “Refusal” on the 14th. The status message further read that the refusal status might be for administrative processing, which means the case could be later adjudicated after the administrative processing is completed (I guess that’s what happened with @Dixoxoxo’s case who was later approved without being interviewed).

Of the cases you know of that were updated on the 14th, do you know anyone whose IW status was updated to “approved” or “issued”?. Thanks!

I Moved the trip, will now be doing it later in the future (date TBD).

that said I was in Senegal in January, Unplanned and it was to attend a business event.

I have done a lot of research, so feel free to ask any question.

Explorewitheby:
Hello 👋

I just wanted to find out if you’ve gone ahead with your trip as planned. I’m looking forward to exploring 3p African countries and was searching for current info on the west African route from Lagos to Senegal when I stumbled on post. Please let me know how it’s going and if you went ahead with the trip. Thank you.

Go to port health and ask them for yourself. Do it tomorrow. Are you in Lagos?

AfahaAbia:
But I don't have it and I need to travel in two days time coz it's important

Very mandatory. Also, the yellow card needs to be taken at least 10days before travel.

AfahaAbia:
Hello do I need yellow fever card by air? Is it mandatory? Because I am traveling to Ghana by air and I only have my passport and hotel reservation

They will call whatever number is on your DS-160. For some, they will return the passport with the 221g letter but not always the case. Either way, it’s just an uncomfortable delay but will eventually get approved again (the approval rates are high)

Cityview12:
@AdisaMighty, Can you weigh in on the similar post above?
Did they call your US phone number or Nigerian number
Also I sent you an email and would like to talk to you

Relax, I am 99.999% sure it’s a 221g, in my case they called me in without returning my passport. They asked basic questions and approved.

if you are a person of faith, pray about it.

Again refused ≠ denied

googleTALK:
Hello everyone, Input from current US students will be appreciated.

I am a US graduate student trying to renew my VISA through the Interview Waiver (IW) / Dropbox, I submitted my application in April and checked on the status update to see "Refused". This is surprising since I expected the process to be seamless.
Also, there was no further information on what to do next or if the refusal was based on 221g or if I should schedule an in-person appointment.
I also tracked my passport with OIS and was told the passport is not ready for pickup.

Please, those that have gone throuiught this IW / Dropbox should please shed light on this.
How did you get back your passport? Did you pay for visa fees and go for the in-person interview

Has less to do with the leaders but the people.

Shidinky:
Our pali is dead na
With drug lords as president and terrorist funder as vice
Don't expect to not be ransacked anywhere u go

Keep your phone close to you always, they might call. If you are a man of faith, pray about it. I got a call on the first day of my fasting and praying (9 days after refusal)

AdisaMighty:
To encourage anyone that is going through the "refused"/ 221g thing. I did my followup interview today and it was straightforward. They most likely have a few things to clarify. At least that was my experience. As long as you didn't overstay, commit a crime or give birth, you should be fine.

I give glory to Jesus.

Dixoxoxo:
No I am still waiting. It's odd that they haven't returned the passports at the very least. Not sure if anyone has any insight as to why there has been no passport pick up or info from the embassy since refused status for 8 business days!

It will be difficult to prove she’s just visiting and not eloping (let’s assume she’s able to prove the romance is genuine). They will most certainly believe she plans to seek an asylum.

Expect questions like:
Has your girlfriend visited you in Nigeria before?
How did you meet her/them?

Zeni06:
Girlfriend, not spouse. So it's definitely B1/B2.
You don't necessarily have to buy your ticket beforehand. Just ensure you have enough evidence to prove your relationship with your girlfriend, and strong home ties to prove you're returning back to Nigeria.
All the best.

I am not sure your category is B1/B2

Jane8999:
Please I need advise
This is my first time applying for b1 b2 visa and my purpose is to visit my lesbian girlfriend ( I am gay )
She is planning on sending an invitation letter and getting it notarized
And also I am planning on booking my flight tickets (going and return ) before the interview


Are there any tips I need
Plus this is my first international travel but before I travel I am planning of visiting Togo

What tips do I need to hear please , I am so nervous.

Both. Phone call first then email within 2 minutes after the call. They actually told me I would get the email immediately after and I did.

bamystery:
thank you, was it like a phone call or through email ?

About a week after.

bamystery:
how long after the refusal did they call you in for the interview ?

False!

In my case I was refused on CEAC and they called me in for an interview. My passport was not returned, I did not pay another MRV and I did not have to schedule another appointment either. I was called on phone and asked to show up a week after and they sent me an email after the call.

At the Consulate, I met more than 5 people that day with the same issue, all without their passports.

My interview questions were simple and I got approved afterwards

Refused ≠ Denied

Efetobore1980:
Hi Dixoxo.
Of course you are no more qualify for IW again because the strongest brick wall against qualification for IW is when you have been refused a visa before and now that you have been refused you are back to queue with fresh visa applicants until after you secure a new visa again.

You will be able to collect your passport this week (Friday) at your chosen pick up location but unfortunately you will have to start afresh by purchasing another MRV and securing another (physical) visa appointment date in order to re-apply.

They cannot hold on unto your passport (except if you have committed a bad visa offences or needed to be arrested) and with that they will have to lure you to the embassy not holding unto your passport.

NOTE: You have likely overstayed or abuse your previous visa or you misrepresented some information in your renewal - visa application (ds-160) in which the embassy cannot confirm. Wait until you receive your passport along with INA 214b (or 212 etc depends on circumstances) denial slip before you can finally decide your faith. 👍