US Visa Applications: How to Prepare for Lagos-Only Processing
Routine United states visa processing is now centralized at the Consulate General in Lagos. Abuja is no longer processing standard non-immigrant or immigrant visa interviews.
Applicants under the new process must first complete their DS-160 form and pay the machine-readable visa fee before an appointment can be scheduled. The confirmation code is to be kept as it will be needed during the appointment process.
A profile must then be created or accessed on the official visa appointment system with Lagos selected as the post. Appointment availability may change frequently and should be checked periodically for cancellations, not to assume the next unavailable date means there are no further openings.
Supporting Documents are to be gathered in the order specified in the consulate guide: passport valid for at least six months beyond one’s intended stay, photographs, evidence of ties to Nigeria, provision of financial support and any previous US travel history.
For B1/B2 categories, additional requirements may apply based on current policy. Therefore, applicants should consult the latest instructions before attending the interview, and not rely solely on advice from agents, friends or previous applicants.
On arrival at the Lagos consulate on the day of the appointment, original documents and photocopies must be presented. Electronic device usage is strictly prohibited, and visitors are to comply with posted instructions.
Following the interview instructions, passport return or further administrative processing may be required in each case.
The status of the applications is to be tracked through the CEAC or consulate channels, and not through agents.
Any unofficial promise made by an agent should not be taken as a guarantee of visa approval.
For those travelling from outside Lagos, transport costs and an overnight stay should also be factored in, in case of a missed appointment.
With the shift of visa processing from Abuja, increased load on the only post available means early preparation is advisable.
For anyone contemplating making a US visa application, preparation should begin with the Lagos process, and not wait for an appointment date to arrive.
