US Visa Application In Nigeria

Want to Move to the US?

We have helped many Nigerians with their US visas. If you are looking to come to the US and need some guidance on the most appropriate visa for you circumstances, get in touch with us. Allow us to handle the steps of your application and provide you with comprehensive support.

Nigerian Emigration

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

Other Immigration and Emigration Matters

For immigration/emigration to/from other countries, please call:

US –  +1 844 290 6312

Ireland –  (+353) 061 518 025

UK –  (+44) 333 4149244

What Is A US Visa?

A US visa is a permit issued by the U.S. government that grants non-citizens entry into the country for certain purposes, such as work, study, or travel. This document must be attached to your passport before you can enter the United States.

To apply for a visa, you will need to fill out the correct forms, provide relevant documents, and pay a fee. In some cases, you may also need to attend an interview at a US embassy or consulate.

US Visa Application Requirements

To apply for a US visa, you must meet certain requirements. Applicants should have valid passports and documents demonstrating their purpose of travel, such as employment contracts or educational records. Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, additional documentation may be required.

You should also be prepared to provide evidence of your financial resources and any medical or other relevant information requested by the US embassy or consulate, and have proof of your intention to return home after your authorised stay, if you;re applying for a temporary or nonimmigrant visa.

It’s also important to remember that all documents must be in English or translated into English and that all original documents must be presented with copies at the visa interview.

Types Of US Visa

The US offers two types of visas: immigrant and non-immigrant.

An immigrant visa is for those who intend to stay in the USA permanently, while a non-immigrant visa is for those who are only in the USA temporarily. Non-immigrant visas generally allow people to work or study in the US for up to 180 days, while an immigrant visa allows you to stay indefinitely and work without restrictions.

Non-Immigrant Visas

There are a number of types of non-immigrant visas, and these include:

Work Visa

As the name suggests, a work visa allows you to legally work in the USA, and all require you to have a firm, concrete job offer in the USA. Your work visa will be tied to your company- you are not permitted to work for anyone else while you are in the US on a work visa.

The main visas in this category include:

• C-1/D Visa (Combined Transit and Crewman) – crew members of international flights or ships
• E-1 Visa (Treaty Trader) – managers/executives/specialists/supervisors of companies driving trade to the U.S.
• E-2 Visa (Treaty Investor) – managers/executives/specialists/supervisors of companies investing in the U.S.
• H-1B Visa (Speciality Occupation Worker) – For highly qualified professionals and people with an academic degree
• I Visa (Foreign News Media) – journalists and media representatives
• L-1 Visa (Intracompany Transferee) – internal transfer of employees of all nationalities
• L-1 Blanket Visa/Registration – internal transfer of employees with a simplified application process
• O- 1 Visa (Extraordinary Ability) – people with extraordinary skills and abilities
• TN Visa – skilled workers from Canada and Mexico

US Visitor Visa (Business Visa USA and US Tourist Visa)

In many cases, tourists and visitors will qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA). However, as a Nigerian citizen, you will need to apply for a specific visa in order to visit the US. In this case, you will need one of two visas:

• B-1 Visa (Business Visitor) – business travellers who stay in the U.S. for up to 180 days
• B-1 Visa (Tourist) – tourists looking to stay in the U.S. for up to 180 days

Internship And Student Visas

If you are studying in the US, taking part in an exchange program, or undertaking an internship, you will need one of two visas:

• F-1 Visa (Student) – for studying at an American university or college
• J -1 Visa (Exchange) – for people who participate in an exchange program in the U.S. (e.g. an internship or training)

Immigrant Visa For The USA (Green Card)

If you have an immigrant visa, you will be permitted to stay in the USA on a permanent basis and undertake paid work. The categories of immigrant visas are Employment-based immigration, Family-based immigration, and the Diversity Visa Program.

Employment-based immigration visas are:

• EB-1 (Priority Workers)
• EB-2 (Advanced Degree/Exceptional Ability
• EB-3 (Skilled Workers, Professionals and Other Workers)
• EB-4 (Special Immigrants – this includes religious workers)
• EB-5 (Immigration Investor Program)

Family-based visas include:

• Spouses and relatives of US citizens, or of US permanent residents

The Diversity Visa program requires participation in the yearly Green Card Lottery – this is open to citizens of eligible countries, and allows a certain number of people to gain permanent resident status.

US Visa Application Process

The US Visa immigrant process can be complex – this step-by-step guide will provide you with valuable tips to increase your chances of success.

Step 1: Determine the Type of Visa You Need

The first crucial step is to identify the most suitable visa category for your purpose of travel. As we have seen, the US offers various visas, each with specific requirements, so carefully research the visa categories available and choose the one that aligns with your intentions.

Step 2: Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application

Once you have determined the appropriate visa category, you must complete the relevant form for your visa type. Be thorough and accurate while filling out the form, as any discrepancies may impact your application’s success.

You may either have to fill in your form online, or by paper. The method of application will vary from visa to visa.

Step 3: Pay the Visa Application Fee

After completing your form, you will normally have to pay the visa application fee. The amount varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Ensure that you keep the receipt as proof of payment, as you will need it for the visa interview.

Step 4: Schedule a Visa Interview

Next, you may need to schedule a visa interview at the US embassy or consulate in your home country. The waiting times for your visa interview can vary, so it’s advisable to schedule your appointment well in advance.

Step 5: Gather The Required Documentation

Assemble all the required documentation based on the visa category you are applying for. Common documents can include a valid passport, visa application fee receipt, a passport-sized photograph, financial statements, employment or educational documents, and any supporting materials specific to your visa type. Ensure that all documents are up to date and well-organised.

Step 6: Attend the Visa Interview

On the scheduled date, arrive at the embassy or consulate on time for your visa interview. Dress professionally, be polite and confident, and answer the consular officer’s questions honestly and succinctly. Provide any additional documents if requested. Remember to bring all your original documents, as well as copies, as the officer may require them for verification.

Top Tips for Success

1. Thoroughly research the visa category that best suits your purpose of travel and gather all the necessary documents accordingly.
2. Start the application process well in advance to allow ample time for any unexpected delays or complications.
3. Prepare for the visa interview by familiarising yourself with potential questions and practising concise, confident responses.
4. Be honest and transparent during the interview. Providing false information can lead to serious consequences and future visa rejections.
5. Present your supporting documents in an organised manner, making it easier for the consular officer to review and verify the information.
6. Demonstrate strong ties to your home country, such as stable employment, family, or property, to assure the consular officer that you will return after your authorised stay (if applicable)

The US Visa Interview

Another key step in the US visa application process is the visa interview. This is a formal meeting with a consular officer at the US embassy or consulate.

The purpose of this interview is to determine whether you meet all the criteria for a visa and to verify that the information you have given in your application is accurate. You must answer all questions truthfully and provide any additional documents requested by the consular officer.

To prepare for the visa interview, it’s important to review all the information and documents you submitted before. You should also familiarise yourself with questions that are commonly asked during a visa interview, such as your purpose of travel, length of stay, financial resources, ties to your home country, etc. Additionally, ensure that all documents are up to date and that you have all originals and copies on hand.

At the interview, remember to dress professionally, be polite and confident, and answer all questions honestly. The outcome of your visa application largely depends on this interview, so it’s essential to make a good impression.

Visa Rejection

Overview

In some cases, your application for a US visa may be denied. Usually, this is due to incomplete or incorrect information on the application forms, insufficient proof of ties to your home country, or non-compliance with additional immigration requirements.

It’s important to remember that applying for a US visa does not guarantee approval. Applying again after a rejection requires extra time and effort and can be costly, so make sure you provide all the necessary information and documents to increase your chances of success.

Some of the most common reasons for visa rejection include:

Incomplete Or Inaccurate Forms

It is important to ensure that all the information you provide is accurate and complete. This includes details such as your name, date of birth, passport number, etc.

Insufficient Evidence Of Ties To Home

If applying for a nonimmigrant visa, you must demonstrate strong ties to your home country that will ensure your return after completing your stay in the US. This evidence can include property ownership, family connections, or a job offer in your home country.

Failure to Comply With Immigration Requirements

US immigration law is complex and constantly changing, so it’s important to keep up with the latest requirements. Make sure that you are aware of all relevant rules and regulations before applying for a visa.

False Information And Misrepresentation

Another common reason for visa rejection is providing false information or misrepresenting your intentions. Make sure that all the information you provide is accurate and truthful, or you may be subject to penalties or even criminal prosecution.

Insufficient Financial Proof

You must demonstrate that you have sufficient resources to fund your stay in the US. Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, this can include proof of income, bank statements, and/or a letter of support from a family member or sponsor.

Overstaying On A Previous Visa

If you have previously overstayed in the US on a valid visa, this could affect your chances of receiving approval – it is important to note that this is the case no matter which type of visa you previously held, and whether your current visa is the same type.

Criminal History

Finally, a criminal record or any other type of negative immigration history can be grounds for visa rejection. If you have been convicted of a crime in the past, it’s important to disclose this information on your application and be prepared to explain it further during the interview.

Can I Appeal A Visa Rejection?

In some cases, you may be able to appeal a visa rejection. Depending on the reason for the refusal, you may be able to provide additional evidence or documentation to support your application. If you have been denied a visa due to false information or misrepresentation, you can also submit a formal written apology and request that your case be reconsidered.

The main steps for appeal include:

1. Review the reasons for appeal, and gather the documents or information you may need to support your appeal
2. Write a letter to the appropriate authority, making sure you have explained why the denial should be reconsidered, and adding any relevant documentation
3. If the appeal is successful, your visa application will be approved, and you can move forward with the process. If the appeal is unsuccessful, the original decision will stand.

Remember that you may not be successful in your appeal, so ensure that you have strong reasons and, if possible, plenty of evidence, to ensure that it is a good use of time, energy and resources.

Appeals are made easier with the help of an immigration official by your side. Reach out to IAS if your visa has been refused for professional help in securing a visa. Call us on +44 (0) 3316300929, or contact the Lagos office at +2342013438882 Or, contact us online.

How We Can Help

Navigating the US visa process can be tricky, and that is why it is important to have experienced, qualified professionals on hand to help you through the process. At Immigration Advice Service, we can provide comprehensive consultation services, helping you with everything from document preparation to interview prep, and will work hard to ensure that you have the best possible chance of success.

Get in touch today with tus on +44 (0) 3316300929, or contact the Lagos office on +2342013438882 for more information, and see how we can help you with your visa application.