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iVisa Mobile App Online global travel documents
US B1/B2 Visa for Nigerian citizens: Complete guide
Photo of Cynthia Oliwa Cynthia Oliwa
5 min read
Updated on Jan 24, 2025
Summary
  • Visa type: Traditional paper visa (US B1/B2 Visa)
  • Visa details: Multiple entries
  • Validity: Up to 5 years
  • Maximum stay: 180 days per visit
  • Interview required: Yes, unless eligible for visa renewal

As a Nigerian citizen you can apply for a US B1/B2 Visa, which allows you to travel to the United States for tourism and business.

While we don’t process B1/B2 Visa applications right now, we can provide the essential information to help you understand the process.

What do I need to get the B1/B2 Visa as a Nigerian citizen?

To apply for the B1/B2 Visa, you will need to gather the following documents:

  • Valid Nigerian passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival in the US​.

  • Passport-style photograph: Ensure it meets the US visa photo guidelines​.

  • Previous visas: Include copies of any past visas​ if you're up for a United States visa renewal.

  • Supporting documents: Include financial evidence showing you can cover the costs of your trip, and in some cases, documents explaining the reason for your travel (especially for medical purposes)​.

Fill me in

How to apply for a US B1/B2 Visa from Nigeria

1. Complete the DS-160 form: Go to the official US government website to fill out the DS-160 form online. Make sure all the information matches your documents.

2. Pay the visa application fee: You must pay this fee online before scheduling your interview. It is non-refundable.

3. Schedule your visa interview: After completing the DS-160 form and paying the fee, schedule your visa interview on the visa application center website.

Make sure to bring all the required documents, including your valid passport and payment receipt.

4. Prepare for the visa interview: Gather your supporting documents. During the interview, the consular officer will ask about your purpose of travel and your intent to return to Nigeria.

"Schedule your interview early in the morning. Officers are fresher and less likely to be rushed. At least, that's what I've experienced when applying," says David, recent applicant.

5. Visa decision and processing: After the interview, your visa application will be processed. Processing times usually range from 1 to 3 weeks, but can vary depending on administrative processing or other factors.

Tips for navigating the US B1/B2 Visa interview

The US B1/B2 visa interview can be an overwhelming experience for many Nigerian travelers.

“I made sure I had all the required documents, but the officer didn’t seem to care. They denied my visa, saying they weren’t convinced I’d return to Nigeria after my trip," shared one traveler.

The intent to return seems to be one of the most common reasons for Nigerians to be denied a visa. That's why it's extra important to include documentation that shows that you have responsibilities in Nigeria, such as:

  • A job contract
  • Assets such as a house
  • Dependents such as children and a spouse

Check our detailed guide on common B1/B2 visa interview questions to help you ace your interview and increase your chances of visa approval.

Renewing your US B1/B2 Visa as a Nigerian

If you already have a US B1/B2 Visa, but the validity is running out, you must apply for a new visa.

While the steps to renew your US Visa are generally the same as a first-time application, you may qualify for a visa renewal without an interview under the Interview Waiver Program if:

  • Your previous B1/B2 visa is still valid or expired within the last 48 months.
  • You are applying for the same visa type (B1/B2).
  • Your previous visa was issued in Nigeria, and you meet the following conditions:
  • It was a 10-year multiple-entry visa (currently Nigerians can only apply for a 5-year visa).
  • You have no history of visa refusal since your last approval.
  • You haven’t overstayed in the U.S. or violated visa terms.
  • Your biometrics (fingerprints) were previously collected.

If you’re not eligible for the waiver, you’ll need to go through the regular application process, including an interview.

Additional tips for Nigerian travelers

Here are some extra tips to increase your approval chances:

  • Book your appointment early: Visa interview slots can fill up quickly, so schedule your interview well in advance of your planned travel date.

  • Be clear: Clearly explain the purpose of your trip (business, tourism, or both). Ambiguity can lead to rejection.

Cynthia advises: "Avoid saying you plan to "explore opportunities" unless it's specifically tied to a business event or meeting. Officers are incredibly strict when it comes to working in the US on a tourist visa."

  • Financial info: Provide recent bank statements showing sufficient funds for your trip. Highlight steady income rather than one-off deposits.

  • Travel history: A solid travel history (to countries like the UK, EU, Canada, etc.) strengthens your case.

"If you lack travel history, focus on strong ties to Nigeria instead, such as a business or job," says Cynthia.

Can I live and work in the United States with a B1/B2 Visa?

No, you can’t. The US B1/B2 Visa is a non-immigrant visa that’s intended for short tourism or business visits to the US.

If you want to relocate to the United States, you would need to apply for an immigrant visa instead. One way to get one is through the Green Card Lottery (Diversity Visa).

Find out more about the Green Card lottery.

This lottery system selects random applicants to get a work visa for the United States and the opportunity to live there permanently. We help applicants complete the registration and optimize their chances of a successful outcome.

Need more info about traveling to the United States?

Our customer service team is ready to assist if you have any questions about the United States or other travel documents and visa applications.

Contact us any time via our customer service agents via chat or WhatsApp.

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