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Welcome to Part 6 of the USA visit visa thread
USA Visit Visa Part 6

Welcome to Part 6 of the USA Visit Visa (B1/B2) thread! Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this community; your shared experiences and advice have been invaluable. As in previous parts, this thread is a do-it-yourself space – nobody here is a visa agent or VOA, and our goal is to help honest applicants prepare and apply correctly . Please read earlier parts for more background.

Recap of Parts 1–5

Part 1 (2015) – The original thread where the first applicants shared their stories and basic tips. It laid the foundation with Q&A about application steps and interviews.

Part 2 (2015) – A “cleaned-up” continuation by LadyGuinivere, focusing on likely interview questions, self-evaluation, and official instructions. It emphasized the DIY approach and honesty , and provided key links (DS-160, appointment site, embassy contacts).

Part 3 (2017) – Continued by LadyGuinivere as a fresh thread. It reiterated that Parts 1–2 still contain “priceless” advice and encouraged applicants to revisit them.

Part 4 (2020) – Reopened by LadyGuinivere with updated links and a reminder that advice from Parts 1–3 remains priceless . It again stressed careful preparation, honesty, and walking through the process step-by-step.

Part 5 (2024) – Launched by Debbie and Justwise, praising the community’s “amazing” contributions (especially Part 2)  and sharing new official updates. It reinforced the themes of truthfulness and self-help, and included instructions and links (e.g. US Embassy Nigeria visa info, DS-160/CEAC, interview videos).

Each part has built on the last, so newcomers should skim Parts 1–5(linked below) before proceeding. The information from Parts 1–5 remains invaluable .

🔗 Links to previous parts: 🔗 Part 1: https://www.nairaland.com/608780/usa-visit-visa/322#38856287 
🔗 Part 2: https://www.nairaland.com/2656320/usa-visit-visa-part-2 
🔗 Part 3: https://www.nairaland.com/4116999/usa-visit-visa-part-3/507#77029195 
🔗 Part 4: https://www.nairaland.com/5807124/usa-visit-visa-part-4#88683712 
🔗 Part 5: https://www.nairaland.com/8138024/usa-visit-visa-part-5 

Steps to Apply (Nigeria)
1. Decide on Visa Type: B1/B2 (visitor visa) is for tourism, visiting family/friends, or short business trips. Confirm you qualify (non-immigrant intent, strong ties to Nigeria).
2. Complete the DS-160 Form: Go online to the U.S. Department of State’s Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) at ceac.state.gov/ceac  and fill out the DS-160. Answer honestly and thoroughly. When done, print the DS-160 confirmation page with barcode ; you’ll need this at your appointment. If you make a mistake, you must submit a new DS-160 (print the new barcode) and contact the embassy before the interview to explain the change .
3. Pay the Visa Fee: The application (MRV) fee for a B1/B2 visa is US$185 (depending on exchange rates). Pay only through the approved methods (formerly at GTBank or online via Quickteller; check the U.S. Embassy Nigeria site for current options like Avits website and bank payment). After payment, you will get a receipt and a payment barcode number – keep these for scheduling your appointment.
4. Create a Visa Appointment Account: Log on to the official visa appointment portal for Nigeria (the U.S. visa applicant service) at usvisaappt.com  and register an account. This account links your DS-160 and payment. Follow the instructions to verify your payment and then schedule your visa interview date and location (choose either Abuja or Lagos based on convenience) .
5. Schedule Interview: Once your account is set up, schedule your interview appointment online. You will select the visa category (B1/B2) and get an appointment letter. Print and keep this appointment confirmation. Note that new rules (effective April 22, 2025) require your DS-160 confirmation barcode to match the appointment details exactly . You must schedule at the city you chose on your DS-160. If later you realize the DS-160 barcode doesn’t match, log into your appointment account at least 10 days before the interview and submit a correction request  (then rebook the appointment if needed).
6. Prepare for Your Interview: Gather all required documents (see next section). On the day of your interview, arrive early at the embassy/consulate, go through security screening, have biometrics (fingerprints) taken, and then see the consular officer. Answer questions truthfully and confidently.

Required Documents

Bring the following to your interview:

Passport: Valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay. Also bring a clear copy of the photo page.

DS-160 Confirmation Page: The printed barcode page .

Appointment Letter: Confirmation of your interview date/time (from USVisaAppt).

Photographs: Two recent color passport-size photos (2×2 inches, white background) meeting U.S. requirements. (Check Travel.State “Photo Requirements” for details.)

Supporting Documents: [/b]To establish the purpose of your trip and your ties to Nigeria. Typical documents include:

[b]Travel itinerary or invitation: [/b]If visiting family/friends, an invitation letter and their ID/legal status; if tourism, proof of hotel reservation or travel plans.

[b]Employment letter: From your Nigerian employer stating position, salary, approved leave, and that you’ll return to work.

Business letter: If traveling for business, a letter from your company detailing the business purpose.

Bank statements: Recent statements (ideally 3–6 months) to show sufficient funds.

Proof of ties: Evidence of family, property, business ownership, or other commitments in Nigeria (e.g. land documents, title deeds, letter of student enrollment, etc.).

Civil documents: Birth certificates, marriage certificate, national ID or NIN, as applicable.

Fee Receipt: Evidence of payment of the visa application fee (the deposit slip or email confirmation from the bank/Quickteller).

Bring originals and keep copies. If any document isn’t in English, bring a certified English translation. Officials may check each item, so be thorough. (Immigrant visa instructions emphasize “bring all required original documents”  – apply the same care here.)

Important: Honest, consistent answers are critical. Do not lie or misrepresent on your DS-160 or in the interview – misrepresentation is a crime and will likely result in visa denial . The truth is always best. Be ready to explain how you will fund the trip, your exact itinerary, and especially your plans to return home after your visit.

DS-160 Form Guidelines

Use the CEAC Site: [/b]Access and fill the DS-160 at CEAC’s website . The form times out after 20+ minutes, so save frequently. Use a supported browser (Chrome, Firefox, IE11+).

[b]Complete All Sections: Provide complete names, dates, and addresses exactly as they appear on your passport and other documents. Include any previous US travel or visas.

Upload Photo: You will upload a digital photo. Make sure it meets the specifications (square, white background, no glasses). Some people find it easier to upload after submission and printing.

Review Carefully: Errors in names or other details can delay your application. If you do spot an error after submitting, fill a new DS-160 and submit that one. Then contact the embassy (via email or phone) to inform them, and bring both confirmation pages on interview day .

Print the Barcode: After you submit DS-160, you will see a confirmation with a barcode. Print this page. Do not print the full form – only the confirmation barcode page is required . You will present it at your appointment along with the Appointment Letter.

Matching DS-160 and Appointment: Keep in mind the new rules: the DS-160 barcode (the number starting with AA00…) must match the DS-160 used to schedule the appointment . Double-check at least two weeks before your interview that the barcode on your printed DS-160 is identical to what’s in your appointment profile . A mismatch could mean you’re not allowed into the consular section . If there is a mismatch, log in and request a correction at least 10 days before the interview .

Appointment and Interview Process

Scheduling: You can choose either the U.S. Embassy in Abuja or the Consulate in Lagos for your interview. (Note: Immigrant visa applicants now have two required visits to Lagos , but this does not apply to visitor visas.)

Before Interview: [/b]On the day of your interview, arrive early. Wear business-casual attire. Expect a security screening at the entrance (no phones, thick binder, food, etc. are allowed). You will then wait in the lobby until called.

[b]Biometrics: [/b]At the embassy/consulate, you will first have your fingerprints and digital photo taken. The officer will verify your appointment and documents.

[b]Interview: You will then meet the Consular Officer (VO). Be ready to explain clearly: why you are traveling (tourism, visiting relatives, etc.), when and for how long you will stay, where you will stay, who is paying for the trip, and why you will return to Nigeria after your visit. Common questions include:
• “What is the purpose of your trip?”
• “How long will you stay and where will you go?”
• “Who will you be visiting or who invited you?”
• “What do you do in Nigeria?” (employment, family)
• “How will you fund your trip?” (present bank statements, salary letter, etc.)
• “Do you have family in the U.S.?” (be truthful)
• Answer Tips: Speak clearly and confidently. Only volunteer relevant information and documentation. Honesty is crucial – as one Part 5 contributor reminds us, “the truth is always the best course of action” . If you do not know an answer, say so rather than guess.

Avoid Agents: Again, remember this is a do-it-yourself process . You do not need an agent or any special connections. Be prepared on your own.

If approved, the officer will keep your passport to print the visa. If additional processing is needed (administrative processing), you will receive a slip explaining the next steps. Otherwise, the passport will be returned via courier.

Checking Status & Retrieving Your Passport

Tracking: After the interview, you can often check your visa status online. Use the CEAC Visa Status Tracker: go to ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker , select Nonimmigrant Visa (NIV), and enter your DS-160 application ID. This will show if your visa is issued or if it is under processing.

OIS Courier: In Nigeria, the U.S. visa service is handled by OIS Services. Once your visa is issued, the passport is sent to OIS for delivery. You will receive an SMS/email notification with instructions. Schedule a pickup on the OIS portal at appointment.oisservices.com . Then collect your passport (and any returned documents) at one of the free DHL pickup locations:

Lagos (VI): Plot 230 Muri Okunola St., Victoria Island 

Abuja: Hafsat Plaza, 472 Abogo Largema St., CBD 
(Pickup hours are typically 10am–3pm, Mon–Fri.) Bring the pick-up appointment confirmation and a valid ID.

Passport Returned: If you do not pick up within a set time (usually 90 days), the passport is returned to the Embassy. Check your email/SMS for updates. If in doubt, contact the OIS contact center.

Recent Updates (2024–2026)

The visa process has seen some changes in the last couple of years. Key updates affecting Nigerian applicants include:

DS-160 Barcode Requirement (2025): Starting April 22, 2025, all U.S. visa applicants in Lagos and Abuja must bring a printed DS-160 form with the confirmation/barcode number (beginning “AA00…”) that exactly matches the one used to make their appointment . You also must schedule your appointment in the same city you chose on the DS-160. The embassy has emphasized that barcodes must match: check yours at least two weeks before your interview . You cannot reuse an old DS-160 from a prior application . If you find a mismatch, log into your appointment profile at least 10 days before and request a correction  (then reschedule; you may need to pay again if the fee payment has expired). Failure to follow these rules will mean you are not allowed into the consular section .

Appointment Locations: Prior to 2025, applicants could freely choose Lagos or Abuja on scheduling. The new rules tie that choice to your DS-160. Make sure to select the correct city on your DS-160 and at booking.

Embassy Operations: The U.S. Consulate in Lagos and Embassy in Abuja are fully operational again (post-pandemic). There is no “double visit” requirement for B1/B2 applicants – that rule applies to immigrant visas only .

Payment Options: Over the past few years, Nigeria introduced online payment via Quickteller (GTBank) and allowed mobile banking/USSD payments. Always check the latest instructions on the embassy website before paying, as bank partners can change.

Passport Pickup: As noted, passports are now delivered to OIS/DHL pickup centers; Embassy/Consulate pickup is no longer an option . This system has been in place since 2023–24.

For the very latest, always refer to official sources (below).

Helpful Links

U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Nigeria – Visa Information (US Visas page): ng.usembassy.gov/visas

CEAC (Consular Electronic Application Center) – DS-160 Form: ceac.state.gov/CEAC 

U.S. Visa Appointment Service (AVITS) – Schedule Interview: usvisaappt.com/visaapplicantui 

Visa Status Tracker: ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx?App=NIV  (enter your application ID to check visa issuance)

OIS Services – Passport Pickup Scheduler: appointment.oisservices.com  (create a profile to book pickup at Lagos or Abuja)

Please also see the linked Nairaland Part 1–5 threads for community Q&A and shared experiences: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5.

This thread is for genuine applicants only. Stay honest, prepare well, and rely on your own effort; as the community has proven, success comes from careful self-assessment and preparation. We look forward to your questions and experience reports. Good luck to all visa seekers, and thanks again to everyone who shares knowledge here!

Information Subject to review by USA’s department of state

As of January 1, 2026, the U.S. government implemented a partial suspension on visa issuance to Nigerian nationals under Presidential Proclamation 10998. Applicants may still apply, schedule interviews, and attend their appointments, but visas may not be printed or issued for Nigerians outside the United States who did not hold valid visas before that date. This is an evolving policy subject to change.

Safe travels and best wishes ; you’ve got this! 👍


1) DS-160 Form (CEAC):
https://ceac.state.gov/CEAC/

2) Visa appointment portal (Nigeria – AVITS):
https://www.usvisaappt.com/visaapplicantui/login

3) Global Visa Wait Times (official, updated monthly):
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/global-visa-wait-times.html

4) Interview Waiver Update (Oct 1, 2025 rules):
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/interview-waiver-update-sept-18-2025.html

5) New Nigeria requirement announcement (DS-160 barcode must match appointment):
https://ng.usembassy.gov/new-requirements-for-visa-interviews-april-11-2025/


Yours truly,
Debbie & Justwise

Justwise this is the new thread as requested please close the previous thread.
Thanks 🙏🏾

Debbieeeeeee:
Justwise this is the new thread as requested please close the previous thread.
Thanks 🙏🏾

Thank you for the great work.

Let’s hope that this will not be derailed

justwise:
Thank you for the great work.

Let’s hope that this will not be derailed

I'm hoping so too! Fingers crossed. Anyone who wants to derail will be cautioned.

Please, has anyone gotten B1/B2 US visa approved lately?

Asking again as previous thread was closed with no response: Interview in august... can someone in nigeria attend?

follygold:
Asking again as previous thread was closed with no response: Interview in august... can someone in nigeria attend?

I think you need to go through the last thread to get updated about what is going on. Read from Jan 1 to date to get more informed answers to your situation.

But to summarize, interviews are still going on at the embassy. By August I believe there will be a significant update in the b1/b2 situation.

@AdisaMighty , Yes it was approved. It was a very tough interview. I had to reply you here cos the other thread is now closed.

Transcript?

flourishing247:
@AdisaMighty , Yes it was approved. It was a very tough interview. I had to reply you here cos the other thread is now closed.

Hello House

I intend travelling to USA for 2 wks on vacation.
I have valid visa till 2028
Pls given the new scrutinization of Nigerians, pls am I good to go

People have been going, you should be fine. Pray about it.

MsAnonymous:
Hello House

I intend travelling to USA for 2 wks on vacation.
I have valid visa till 2028
Pls given the new scrutinization of Nigerians, pls am I good to go

AdisaMighty:
Transcript?

Too long. It was a 20 mins interview. No jokes. People there were surprised it was issued. I could hear their gasps when i got the white paper. My saving grace? I never told a single lie on all my applications. They checked all my records over the years. It was my toughest interview. This is why I keep telling people here don't lie. Once they notice a single inconsistency, that's it.

Pls are people still paying $15,000 for the interview?

mane48:
Pls are people still paying $15,000 for the interview?

We are not sure. Do you have an interview soon?

mane48:
Pls are people still paying $15,000 for the interview?

Is there anything like paying $15,000 for interview??

What the US authorities said is that if your visa is approved, you then pay $10,000 or $15,000 refundable bond. Refundable upon return to your country.

agabusta:
Is there anything like paying $15,000 for interview??

What the US authorities said is that if your visa is approved, you then pay $10,000 or $15,000 refundable bond. Refundable upon return to your country.

I’m sure that is what he meant when he asked the question

Looks like interview might actually still be going on and people might be getting visas. Our neighbors have new slots so clearly they’ve been interviewing people before all this while and most likely issuing visas. Even though they were banned like us

Ghana, not Nigeria

Lekan2348:
Looks like interview might actually still be going on and people might be getting visas. Our neighbors have new slots so clearly they’ve been interviewing people before all this while and most likely issuing visas. Even though they were banned like us

Lekan2348:
Looks like interview might actually still be going on and people might be getting visas. Our neighbors have new slots so clearly they’ve been interviewing people before all this while and most likely issuing visas. Even though they were banned like us

Ghana's non-immigrant visas weren't banned unlike Nigeria's

AdisaMighty:
Ghana, not Nigeria

But I clearly stated ‘our neighbors’

They are no longer under the ban.

Lekan2348:
But I clearly stated ‘our neighbors’

AdisaMighty:
They are no longer under the ban.

Oh okay, I was even surprised when they were banned. Because they have a very good relationship with America. Visa still being 5 years and then the fact that they agreed to accept African deportations

Dropping my POE experience

Washington Dulles Airport

Questions:
Why are you visiting
How long are you here for (visiting friends)
What do your friends do in USA
What’s your occupation in Nigeria
When last did you come to USA
How much money do you have on you
Are you carrying food?

That’s all

MsAnonymous:
Dropping my POE experience

Washington Dulles Airport

Questions:
Why are you visiting
How long are you here for (visiting friends)
What do your friends do in USA
What’s your occupation in Nigeria
When last did you come to USA
How much money do you have on you
Are you carrying food?

That’s all

I heard that Nigerians can only visit for 30 days limit. Is that true?

Good day House,
Has anyone been for visa interview recently , please if you don’t mind sharing with us. Thanks

Word around is that visas are actually being issued but you can only visit USA for 30 days max

Please when was your Entry date, and how many days did you get on your i-94 or stamp in

MsAnonymous:
Dropping my POE experience

Washington Dulles Airport

Questions:
Why are you visiting
How long are you here for (visiting friends)
What do your friends do in USA
What’s your occupation in Nigeria
When last did you come to USA
How much money do you have on you
Are you carrying food?

That’s all

Major update:

Did my interview today and I just wasted my time going

Nobody is being issued visas. At all. They will interview you normally, ask you all the questions they want to ask as if everything is fine then at the end they will tell you that they cannot issue you visa because of the ban, give you a white slip and then tell you to re apply after the ban is lifted.

Wasted my time. Naturally I would’ve postponed my interview but I already used up all the 5 date changes so my sacrifice is for everyone’s benefit here.

Postpone your interviews till later, indefinitely. Nobody is issuing visas to Nigerians. As far as b1/b2, f1 are concerned

Lekan2348:
Major update:

Did my interview today and I just wasted my time going

Nobody is being issued visas. At all. They will interview you normally, ask you all the questions they want to ask as if everything is fine then at the end they will tell you that they cannot issue you visa because of the ban, give you a white slip and then tell you to re apply after the ban is lifted.

Wasted my time. Naturally I would’ve postponed my interview but I already used up all the 5 date changes so my sacrifice is for everyone’s benefit here.

Postpone your interviews till later, indefinitely. Nobody is issuing visas to Nigerians. As far as b1/b2, f1 are concerned

Thanks for the feedback. its what we all suspected. I believe that puts to rest all the speculations and some of the misinformation going around.

Thanks for coming back and sharing. Your firsthand experience has cleared up all the nonsense some folks were spewing on the previous thread.

I hope the ban is lifted very soon and wish you all the best if and when you reapply .

Lekan2348:
Major update:

Did my interview today and I just wasted my time going

Nobody is being issued visas. At all. They will interview you normally, ask you all the questions they want to ask as if everything is fine then at the end they will tell you that they cannot issue you visa because of the ban, give you a white slip and then tell you to re apply after the ban is lifted.

Wasted my time. Naturally I would’ve postponed my interview but I already used up all the 5 date changes so my sacrifice is for everyone’s benefit here.

Postpone your interviews till later, indefinitely. Nobody is issuing visas to Nigerians. As far as b1/b2, f1 are concerned

Efe has gone silent 😂

JohnZak:
Thanks for coming back and sharing. Your firsthand experience has cleared up all the nonsense some folks were spewing on the previous thread.

I hope the ban is lifted very soon and wish you all the best if and when you reapply .

AdisaMighty:
Efe has gone silent 😂

I think his account was even suspended. Bro could have died on the line to defend the fact that it’s not possible for them to stop issuing visas. Yet here we are.