The United States Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria have issued an important update for all nonimmigrant visa applicants, including those seeking tourist, student, business, and temporary work visas. The embassy confirmed that urgent travelers will continue to receive priority for visa appointments, while regular interview slots are made available based on local operating conditions. This update was published on the official website of the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria.
Priority for Urgent Travel Needs
The embassy stated that it continues to prioritize travelers with urgent travel needs. Applicants who require immediate travel due to an emergency are advised to apply for an emergency appointment through the official U.S. visa appointment portal. The notice reads: “The Embassy and Consulate General continue to prioritize travelers with urgent travel needs, although regular visa appointments are made available as local conditions allow.”
Regular Visa Appointments Still Available
For nonurgent travel, regular nonimmigrant visa appointments remain available, though availability may vary. The embassy did not specify exact wait times but noted that appointments are subject to local operational conditions. Applicants are encouraged to check the official portal regularly for available slots.
Support Channels for Visa Inquiries
The embassy directed applicants with questions about ongoing visa applications to the Visa Contact Center, which operates from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, excluding Nigerian and U.S. public holidays. Additionally, the embassy’s website offers a ChatBot and Click-to-Talk features for general information at any time. For further assistance, applicants can create a user account on the official visa appointment website.
Office Hours and Contact Information
The U.S. Embassy in Abuja is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday, and from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Fridays. It is located at Plot 1075, Diplomatic Drive, Central Business District, Abuja. The consular section can be reached via email at ConsularAbuja@state.gov. The U.S. Consulate General in Lagos operates from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Thursday, and from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Fridays. Its address is 2 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Important Reminders for Applicants
The embassy emphasized that applicants should use only official channels for visa applications and appointments to avoid scams. All information and appointment bookings should be done through the official U.S. visa appointment portal. The embassy also reminded applicants that they can seek general information via the website’s automated features outside of business hours.
