The United States Embassy in Nigeria has announced significant changes to the immigrant visa application process, effective January 1, 2025. These updates aim to streamline the procedure, minimize delays, and ensure applicants are better prepared. Here’s a detailed overview:

1. Mandatory Two Visits to the US Consulate in Lagos

Applicants with interviews scheduled from January 1, 2025, onward must visit the US Consulate in Lagos twice:

• First Visit: In-Person Document Review with consular staff.
• Second Visit: Visa Interview with a consular officer, scheduled by the National Visa Center (NVC).

2. Purpose of the In-Person Document Review

The first visit is dedicated to reviewing submitted documents to ensure accuracy and completeness.

• Applicants can retrieve and correct any missing or incorrect documents before the second visit.
• Failure to complete this review will result in the visa interview being rescheduled.

3. Changes in Payment and Document Submission

• Payment Method:
  • Payments must now be made at any First Bank branch, replacing the previous system that used Guarantee Trust Bank (GTBank) and online payment options.
• Document Handling Agency:
  • OIS is now the official courier for document submissions, replacing DHL.

4. Schedule Adjustments for Existing Applications

• Applicants with interviews already scheduled for 2025 will be notified via email.
• Their previously assigned interview date will now serve as the first visit for document review, with a new date provided for the actual visa interview.

5. Scope of the New Directive

• The new guidelines apply exclusively to immigrant visa applicants.
• The directive does not affect the Dropbox visa system, which remains unchanged.

Why the Change?

The US Embassy explained that the updated process is designed to:

• Address documentation issues upfront to prevent delays.
• Ensure applicants are fully prepared for their visa interviews.

Implications for Applicants

Experts suggest that while the two-visit system requires adjustments, it offers benefits like reducing processing delays and improving applicant preparedness. By understanding these changes and preparing accordingly, applicants can navigate the revised system efficiently.

Key Takeaways

• Immigrant visa applicants must adhere to the two-visit system.
• Ensure payments are made at First Bank and documents are handled via OIS.
• Watch for email notifications if interviews were scheduled before January 1, 2025.
• Be thorough with document preparation to avoid delays during the process.

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