The United States Mission in Nigeria has addressed ongoing concerns about the non-refundable nature of visa application fees, emphasizing that the policy aligns with standard global practices. In a recent statement, the U.S. Embassy confirmed that visa fees are used to cover the cost of processing each application whether or not a visa is granted.
Visa Fees: Why They’re Non-Refundable
The Embassy reiterated that visa application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, a practice common in many countries. These fees support the administrative and operational costs associated with processing every application, including staff time, system checks, and security screenings.
“Like most countries, U.S. visa fees cover the cost of processing the application, regardless of the outcome,” the Embassy stated on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle.
The U.S. Mission assured Nigerian applicants that every visa application is thoroughly and fairly reviewed according to U.S. immigration laws and procedures. Applicants are advised to:
- Prepare their applications carefully
- Provide complete and truthful information
- Follow official instructions closely
These steps significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome.
New Social Media Vetting Requirements for F, M, and J Visas
In a significant policy update, the U.S. Embassy announced that applicants for F (student), M (vocational student), and J (exchange visitor) nonimmigrant visas must now set their social media profiles to “public.”
“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,” the Embassy noted.
This requirement is part of enhanced vetting procedures aimed at ensuring national security and verifying applicants’ identities.
Presidential Proclamation Affecting Some Applicants
The U.S. Mission also referenced a Presidential Proclamation, effective June 9, 2025, which imposes entry restrictions on nationals from certain countries based on national security and public safety concerns.
While applicants from affected countries may still apply and attend interviews, they may be ineligible for visa issuance or entry under the terms of the Proclamation. Applicants are advised to consult official resources to determine if they are affected.
Final Thought
The U.S. Embassy’s recent clarification offers transparency into its visa processing system, reassuring Nigerian applicants of fair treatment while emphasizing the importance of adhering to updated guidelines. As immigration policies evolve, staying informed through official channels is essential for anyone planning to travel to the United States.
