O3 Visa for Nigerians

Want to Be Reunited With Your Family?

We have successfully assisted numerous Nigerians in reuniting them with their families in the US. If you need help with your O3 visa visa, we can support you with your application. Let us handle all the complexities and make your travel plans as stress-free as possible.

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For Nigerian emigration matters, please call +2342013438882 or +44 (0) 3316300929

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What is the O3 Visa?

The O3 visa is a dependent visa that allows the immediate family members of O1 and O2 visa holders to accompany them to the United States. It is designed to enable spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 to join their qualified family members during their stay. They can stay for the same duration and study but cannot work.

Key Benefits of the O3 Visa

The O3 visa, designed for dependents of O1 visa holders, offers several key benefits.  Some benefits include:

• Legal Status and Accompaniment: The O3 visa provides legal status to dependents, allowing them to reside lawfully in the United States and accompany their qualified family members.
• Education Opportunities: O3 visa holders can pursue educational opportunities in the U.S., including enrolling in schools, colleges, and universities.
• Ability to Obtain a Driver’s Licence: O3 visa holders can apply for and obtain a driver’s licence in most states, facilitating mobility and independence.
• Flexibility for Travel: O3 visa holders have the freedom to travel in and out of the United States as long as their visa remains valid, making it easier to visit family and explore the country.

O3 Visa Eligibility for Nigerians

To be eligible for an O3 visa, individuals must meet specific criteria:

• Relationship to the O1 or O2 Visa Holder: Only immediate family members, such as spouses and unmarried children under 21, are eligible for the O3 visa.
• Proof of Dependency: Documentary evidence demonstrating the dependency relationship is required, such as marriage certificates for spouses or birth certificates for children.
• Valid O1 or O2 Visa of the Primary Applicant: The O3 visa applicant must have a qualified family member who holds a valid O1 or O2 visa.

O3 Visa Application Process from Nigeria

The application process for the O3 visa varies depending on whether the applicant is already inside the US under a different nonimmigrant visa or outside the US.

Inside the US:

Fill out Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. Make sure to include the following supporting documents:

• Valid passport.
• Copy of the O1 or O2 visa holder’s approval notice.
• Proof of marital relationship or parent-child relationship.
• Evidence of financial support.
• Proof of the O1 or O2 visa holder’s valid status.

Pay the required MRV fees of $205 and submit the application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Outside the US:

Fill out Form DS-160, Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. Make sure to include the following supporting documents:

• Valid passport.
• Copy of the O1 or O2 visa holder’s approval notice.
• Proof of marital relationship or parent-child relationship.
• Evidence of financial support.

Schedule an interview and pay the application fee of $205 at the US embassy/consulate in the applicant’s home country. Attend the interview and provide the necessary documents to the consular officer. The consular officer will then review the application and make a decision on visa issuance.

O3 Visa Required Documents

The O3 visa application requires specific documents to support your application, which may include:

• Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States.
• DS-160 Confirmation Page: After completing the online DS-160 form, print the confirmation page.
• Photographs: Provide recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specified requirements.
• Proof of Relationship to the O1/O2 Visa Holder: Include documents such as marriage certificates (for spouses) or birth certificates (for children) to establish the familial relationship.
• Copy of the O1/O2 Visa Holder’s Approval Notice: Submit a copy of the primary visa holder’s approval notice as proof of their visa status.

O3 Visa Processing Time

The processing time for an O3 visa application can vary depending on various factors, including the workload of the embassy or consulate, the completeness of the application, and individual circumstances. It is advisable to apply well in advance of the intended travel date. Applicants can check the status of their application online using the CEAC system or by contacting the embassy or consulate.

O3 Visa Validity

The initial O3 visa is typically granted for the same duration as the primary O1 or O2 visa. O3 visas can be extended or renewed as long as the primary visa holder maintains their status and the dependent relationship exists. The process for extension or renewal involves submitting a new application and supporting documents.

Employment Opportunities for O3 Visa Holders

While on the O3 visa, dependents are not permitted to work or obtain a social security number. Their length of stay is tied to the principal visa holder unless they apply for and receive an adjustment of status independently.

Educational Opportunities for O3 Visa Holders

O3 visa holders have the opportunity to pursue education in the United States. They can enrol in schools, colleges, and universities, including vocational and language training programs. Educational opportunities for O3 visa holders, specifically targeting Nigerians, provide a pathway for dependents of O1 visa holders to pursue their academic aspirations in the United States. O3 visa holders from Nigeria can benefit from the country’s renowned education system, which offers a wide range of educational programs and institutions catering to diverse interests and career goals.

Can I Get a Green Card with an O3 Visa?

The ability of O3 visa holders to apply for US permanent residence is directly tied to the status of the principal visa holder, typically an O1 visa holder. If the O1 visa holder applies for permanent residence, the O3 holders can also apply.

However, the O2 visa, which is for accompanying support personnel, does not provide a pathway to a US Green Card. Therefore, both the O2 visa holder and their dependent O3 visa holders must leave the US when their visas expire. The only option for O3 visa holders to pursue permanent residence would be to obtain a new status in a category that allows for a Green Card application, such as the H-1B visa. This would involve securing employment sponsorship and meeting the requirements of the H-1B program.

O3 Visa Renewal

To renew an O3 visa, the applicant must follow a similar process as the initial application. This includes gathering the required documents, completing the necessary forms, attending an interview, and paying the applicable fees. It is recommended to initiate the renewal process well before the expiration of the current visa. It is essential to note that the primary visa holders (O1 & O2) must also be eligible for a renewal so that the O3 visa holder can renew their visa.

Understanding the Rights and Limitations of O3 Visa Holders

O3 visa holders have certain rights and limitations. While they can legally reside in the United States and enjoy educational opportunities, they are not authorised to work. It is essential to comply with the terms of the O3 visa to maintain legal status in the country.

The O3 visa offers an opportunity for Nigerians to accompany their qualified family members to the United States. By understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, required documents, processing times, and associated benefits and limitations, Nigerians can navigate the O3 visa application process more effectively.

How Can IAS Help?

At IAS, we specialise in providing comprehensive visa advice and guidance to individuals seeking various visa categories. Our experienced team is well-versed in the intricacies of the immigration process, ensuring that our clients receive accurate and up-to-date information. Whether you’re applying for a work visa, family visa, or any other type of visa, we offer personalised assistance tailored to your specific needs.

Whether you’re applying for a work visa, family visa, or any other type of visa, we offer personalised assistance tailored to your specific needs. Let IAS guide you through the complex visa process and maximise your chances of success.

Ready to navigate the complexities of the visa application process? Look no further than Immigration Advice Service for expert guidance and seamless assistance. Contact our Lagos Office now at +2342013438882 or give us a call on +44 (0) 3316300929 to ensure a swift and successful O3 visa application.