New US Embassy Rules for Nigerians Applying for Visas
The United States Embassy in Nigeria has announced fresh directives for Nigerians applying for visas in Lagos and Abuja. Starting April 22, all visa applicants must ensure that the barcode number on their DS-160 form matches the one used when booking their appointment. If these numbers do not match, they will not be allowed into the Consular section for their interview.
This new rule was shared in a statement released on April 11. The Embassy explained that the correct barcode number must begin with “AA00.” Applicants must also schedule their appointment at the same location they chose while filling out the DS-160 form. Failure to do so will result in denial of access for the visa interview.
What should applicants do if there’s a barcode error?
If the barcode on your DS-160 doesn’t match the one used to book your appointment, you must log into your AVITS account at least 10 days before your interview to create a support ticket requesting correction. If you’re turned back due to this mismatch, you may need to pay for a new appointment if your visa fee has already expired.
This latest update comes just four months after the US Mission in Nigeria introduced a new visa application process for Nigerians. The process now requires applicants to visit the US consulate twice.
During the first visit, applicants will attend an In-Person Document Review with a consular staff member. This step helps applicants confirm that all required documents are ready before their visa interview. It’s designed to prevent delays and ensure a smoother process. No need to book an appointment for this review — the Consular Section will email you with the date, which is usually two to four weeks before your interview.
The second visit will be for the visa interview itself with a consular officer. This interview must take place on the exact date and time given by the National Visa Center (NVC). If the document review wasn’t completed before the interview date, the applicant will be required to reschedule.
What documents are needed?
Applicants should bring important documents such as:
- Valid passports
- Birth certificates
- Medical records
- Police certificates (for applicants above 16 years)
Before the interview, applicants must also:
- Create an online account
- Complete a medical exam in Nigeria
- Finish the pre-interview checklist
- Choose their document pickup location (Lagos or Abuja)
With these new changes, visa applicants are urged to follow instructions carefully to avoid delays or being turned away at the embassy gates.
