US Embassy Clarifies Non-Refundable Visa Fee Policy

The United States Mission in Nigeria has reaffirmed that visa application fees are non-refundable, explaining that the charges cover the cost of processing applications regardless of whether they are approved or denied.

In a statement issued on Tuesday via its official X handle, the embassy said the policy aligns with global practices and assured Nigerians that every application is “reviewed thoroughly and fairly.”

“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,” the statement read.

The mission urged applicants to carefully prepare their applications to improve their chances of success. It also reminded Nigerians to follow official guidelines available on its website to avoid visa denials or cancellations.

Earlier in April 2025, the embassy revised interview requirements for Nigerian applicants, mandating that all DS-160 visa application forms presented at interviews in Abuja and Lagos must feature a confirmation barcode beginning with “AA00.” Failure to present a matching barcode, the embassy warned, would result in disqualification from the interview.