The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has addressed complaints over the non-refundable policy on U.S. visa fees, explaining that the rule is consistent with global standards.
According to the embassy, the fees are meant to cover processing expenses whether or not the application is approved.
The clarification follows growing public debate on the fairness and transparency of U.S. immigration processes.
In a statement shared via its X handle on Tuesday, the mission assured Nigerians that every application is given thorough and fair consideration.
It said, “We hear your concerns regarding U.S. visa application fees. Like most countries, U.S. visa fees cover the cost of processing the application, regardless of the outcome.
“While fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, each application is reviewed thoroughly and fairly.”
For best results, the Mission urged Nigerian visa applicants to prepare their application carefully.
It also provided guidelines that will assist applicants in avoiding visa denial, revocation and cancellation.
It advised, “Applicants for U.S. nonimmigrant visas should schedule their visa interview appointments at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence or nationality.
“Effective immediately, all individuals applying for an F, M, or J nonimmigrant visa are requested to adjust the privacy settings on all of their social media accounts to ‘public’ to facilitate vetting necessary to establish their identity and admissibility to the United States under U.S. law.
“Pursuant to the Presidential Proclamation on Restricting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats, which takes effect at 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on June 9, 2025, the United States is suspending or limiting entry and visa issuance to nationals of certain countries.”
“Applicants who are subject to this Presidential Proclamation may still submit visa applications and attend scheduled interviews, but they may be ineligible for visa issuance or admission to the United States.”
US Mission urged applicants to use resources on its website.