Obtaining a US visa from Nigeria involves several steps and associated costs. Whether you are planning to visit the United States for tourism, business, study, or to reunite with family, understanding the visa cost is crucial for preparing your application. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on the cost of a US visa in Nigeria for 2025, as well as the different types of US visas available and the fees associated with each.
Types of US Visas and Their Associated Costs
The cost of a US visa in Nigeria varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for. The United States issues various visa categories, each with its own specific fees. The primary categories are:
Non-Immigrant Visas
Non-immigrant visas are issued for temporary stays in the US, such as for tourism, business, or education.
Immigrant Visas
Immigrant visas are for those intending to permanently reside in the United States.
Non-Immigrant Visa Fees
Non-immigrant visas are the most commonly applied for by Nigerians. Here are the main types and their associated fees:
B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa (Tourism & Business)
The B-1/B-2 visa is used for short-term visits to the United States for either business or leisure purposes. In 2025, the cost for a B-1/B-2 visa is generally $160.
F-1 Student Visa
The F-1 visa is for individuals wishing to study in the United States. For Nigerians applying for an F-1 visa in 2025, the fee is also $160.
J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa
The J-1 visa is issued to individuals participating in exchange programs, including scholars, interns, and visitors for cultural exchange. The cost for a J-1 visa in 2025 is typically $160, though there may be additional fees based on the type of program.
M-1 Vocational Student Visa
For those planning to attend a vocational school in the United States, the M-1 visa is required. The M-1 visa fee in 2025 is $160 as well.
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
The E-2 visa is for individuals from countries that have a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States. Nigerian citizens who qualify for this visa must pay $205 in application fees in 2025.
H-1B Temporary Worker Visa
The H-1B visa allows skilled workers to temporarily work in the United States. While the base application fee is $190, additional fees may apply depending on the specific conditions of the job and employer.
Immigrant Visa Fees
Immigrant visas are for individuals seeking to live permanently in the United States. These visas are usually obtained through family or employment-based petitions.
Family-Sponsored Immigrant Visas
Family-sponsored immigrant visas allow US citizens or lawful permanent residents to sponsor relatives for immigration. The fee for a family-sponsored immigrant visa in 2025 is $325 for most applications. However, there may be additional fees for processing and other related services.
Employment-Based Immigrant Visas
These visas are for individuals who have a job offer from a US employer or are otherwise eligible for employment-based immigration. The application fee for an employment-based immigrant visa is also $325.
Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery
The Diversity Visa Lottery, which allows individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the US to apply for a green card, charges a fee of $330 for selected applicants who are invited to apply.
Additional Fees and Costs Associated with US Visa Applications
Beyond the application fees, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining a US visa in Nigeria in 2025. These fees vary depending on the type of visa and the specifics of the application.
Visa Issuance Fee
For some visa categories, especially immigrant visas, there is an additional issuance fee. This fee is determined by the nationality of the applicant and the type of visa. It is typically paid after the visa is approved and issued. The amount of the issuance fee varies, but for most immigrant visas, it ranges from $220 to $300.
Visa Application Center (VAC) Fees
In Nigeria, visa applicants are required to schedule an appointment and attend an interview at the US Visa Application Center (VAC). Depending on the service chosen, you may be charged additional fees for the visa application center services, such as:
- Visa appointment scheduling
- Document submission services
- Courier services for delivering your passport
These services generally cost between ₦6,000 to ₦12,000 in Nigeria (approximately $15 to $30), depending on the specific service.
SEVIS Fee for Students and Exchange Visitors
For individuals applying for F-1, J-1, and M-1 visas, an additional fee is charged to cover the cost of the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). The SEVIS fee is as follows:
F-1 and M-1 visa applicants: $350
J-1 visa applicants: The fee is $220 for most J-1 visa categories, though some categories may have a reduced fee or be exempt.
Medical Examination Fees for Immigrant Visas
Immigrant visa applicants are required to undergo a medical examination by an approved physician. This medical examination fee typically ranges from ₦50,000 to ₦80,000 (approximately $100 to $150) depending on the doctor and location.
How to Pay US Visa Fees in Nigeria
In Nigeria, there are several ways to pay your US visa application fee. The most common methods include:
Bank Payment: You can pay the visa fee through designated banks in Nigeria, such as Zenith Bank or Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB). A payment slip is provided after completing your online visa application, and you can use this slip to make the payment at the bank.
Visa Application Center Payment: Payments can also be made directly at the Visa Application Center, where you can complete your application and schedule an interview.
Online Payment: For some visa categories, applicants may have the option to pay fees online through the US Department of State’s secure payment system.
Other Considerations When Applying for a US Visa in Nigeria
In addition to the visa fees, it is important to consider other elements of the application process that may affect your cost and timing:
Appointment Scheduling and Interview Costs
In some cases, especially for non-immigrant visas, the embassy may require an in-person interview. While this is generally included in the visa application fee, you may incur additional costs related to traveling to the US embassy in Abuja or the consulate in Lagos.
Processing Time
Visa processing times can vary depending on the type of visa and the volume of applications. Be sure to apply well in advance of your planned trip, as some visa applications can take several weeks to process. Expedited processing services may also be available for an additional fee.
Professional Visa Assistance
Many applicants opt to hire professional visa consultants or legal experts to assist them with the application process, especially for complex visa categories. The fees for these services can range from ₦30,000 to ₦100,000 (approximately $80 to $250).
Conclusion
The cost of a US visa in Nigeria in 2025 depends on the type of visa you are applying for and any additional services you require. Non-immigrant visa fees generally range from $160 to $205, while immigrant visa fees can range from $325 to $330. Additional fees for services such as medical exams, SEVIS registration, and courier services can add to the total cost.
Related topics：
