This is part of a broader U.S. initiative targeting citizens from multiple countries with high overstay rates.
All Nigerian visa applicants (Abuja/Lagos) must: Complete the DS-160 application form and ensure the barcode number on the printed form exactly matches the barcode used when scheduling the appointment. If the barcode doesnβt match, the applicant will be denied entry to the interview. The DS-160 form from old applications cannot be reused , you must file a new one for each application.
The βdrop-boxβ interview waiver program which allowed some applicants to renew without an in-person interview is no longer available in Nigeria. All applicants must now appear in person for their visa interview, increasing both waiting times and face-to-face processing.
Under these new rule, only three airports are designated ports of entry for bond payers. They include the Buston Logan International Airport in Boston, John F. Kennedy International Airport in NewYork, and the Washington Dulles International Airport in Virginia. Entry through undersignated airports might lead to a denied entry or a departure that is not properly recorded.
The bond payment process through the designated airports involves getting directed by a consular officer, completing a DHS Form 1-352, paying securely through the official Pay.gov website (not third parties), and the bond is held until you meet exit conditions or are denied entry, leading to refund or forfeit
Bonds are refundable, the bond will be cancelled and the money will be returned automatically if the DHS records the visa holderβs departure from the US on or before the date which they are authorised to stay in the country, if the visa holder does not travel to the US before expiration of their visa, or if the visa holder applies for and is denied admission at the US port of entry.
