US embassy updates visa interview requirements for Nigerians

In a statement released yesterday, the US Mission stated that all applicants attending interviews in Abuja or Lagos must present a DS-160 visa application form with a confirmation barcode starting with “AA” followed by two zeros (“00”). This barcode must match the one used to book the visa appointment online.

Failure to present a matching barcode will result in denial of access to the consular section and disqualification from the interview.

“Beginning April 22, 2025, applicants in Abuja and Lagos must bring a DS-160 form with a barcode that matches the one used to schedule their appointment,” the statement read. “Appointments must also be made at the same location selected in the DS-160 form.”

The embassy advised applicants to verify the barcode at least two weeks before their appointment. Reusing a DS-160 form from a previous application is not permitted.

If there is a mismatch, applicants are required to log into their AVITS account no later than 10 days before the interview to submit a correction request.

The embassy further noted that applicants turned away due to barcode issues must book a new appointment after correcting the problem. If the visa fee has expired, a new fee may be required before rescheduling.

These adjustments aim to streamline the application process and minimize administrative errors.

Since January 1, all visa applicants have been mandated to make two visits to the US Consulate General in Lagos as part of the application process.