The United States Embassy in Nigeria has unveiled an updated visa interview requirements for Nigerian applicants, effective April 22, 2025.
According to an official statement from the US Mission in Nigeria, all applicants must present a DS-160 visa application form with a confirmation barcode starting with “AA” followed by two zeroes (00).
The US Mission in Nigeria said this barcode must match the one used to schedule the US visa interview appointment online. The embassy emphasized that any mismatch would result in denial of entry to the consular section and disqualification from the interview.
According to the embassy, these changes aim to streamline the non-immigrant visa application process and ensure accuracy during visa interview at the US Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos.
The statement reads in part: “Starting April 22, 2025, all visa applicants in Abuja and Lagos must bring a DS-160 visa application form with a confirmation/barcode number (starting with AA and followed by 00 – two zeroes) that matches the one used to make their appointment online. You also must make your appointment in the location you selected when filling out your DS-160.
“To avoid issues, applicants are strongly advised to verify that their DS-160 barcode matches their appointment information at least two weeks before their interview date.
“If your DS-160 barcode is incorrect, you must log into your AVITS account at least 10 days before your appointment to create a support ticket requesting correction of your barcode number.”
Tips for a Successful US Visa Interview
1. ✅ Be Honest and Straightforward
- Answer every question truthfully.
- Don’t guess — if you don’t know something, say so politely.
2. 🗣️ Speak Clearly and Confidently
- Be calm and composed.
- Maintain eye contact and speak confidently — not too fast, not too slow.
3. 📄 Know Your DS-160 Form
- They’ll likely ask questions based on your answers in the DS-160.
- Be sure your answers during the interview match what’s on your form.
4. 🎯 State Your Purpose Clearly
- Whether it’s for tourism, study, business, or a conference — explain your reason for travel clearly and concisely.
- Example: “I’m attending my cousin’s wedding in Atlanta and will return to work afterward.”
5. 💼 Show Strong Ties to Nigeria
The consular officer wants to be sure you’ll return after your trip. Examples of strong ties:
- A job or business in Nigeria
- Family (spouse, children, parents)
- School enrollment (for students)
- Property or investments
6. 📁 Bring Supporting Documents (but only show if asked)
Have them handy:
- Bank statements
- Employment letter
- Business documents
- School documents (for students)
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Travel itinerary But only present them if the officer requests.
7. 🧍♂️ Dress Neatly and Appropriately
- Business casual is best.
- You don’t need a suit, but look tidy and put together.
8. 🕐 Arrive Early and Be Polite
- Get there 30 minutes before your scheduled time.
- Be polite to security, staff, and everyone around.
9. 🧠 Prepare for Common Questions
Like:
- Why are you going to the US?
- Where will you stay?
- Who is sponsoring your trip?
- What do you do in Nigeria?
- Have you traveled before?
10. 🧳 Know Your Travel Plans (Even if Tentative)
- Have an idea of your travel dates, cities, and duration.
- It shows preparedness and seriousness.
11. 🚫 Avoid These Mistakes:
- Don’t lie or exaggerate
- Don’t submit fake documents
- Don’t argue with the officer
- Don’t give long, unnecessary explanations
