In a significant policy shift, the United States has suspended its visa dropbox service in Nigeria, requiring all visitor visa applicants to undergo in-person interviews for renewals.
The announcement was made via the official X handle of Nigerian Stories, sending shockwaves through the Nigerian travel community. The visa dropbox service, which previously allowed eligible applicants to renew their visas without attending physical interviews, has been a vital convenience for frequent travelers, business professionals, and families.
With this suspension, all applicants seeking to renew their U.S. visitor visas must now schedule and appear for interviews at designated U.S. consulates. The decision is expected to increase the backlog of applications and potentially extend processing times, adding another layer of complexity to the already challenging U.S. visa application process for Nigerians.
While the U.S. government has yet to provide specific reasons for this abrupt policy change, speculation is rife that it could be linked to increased security concerns, a backlog in processing, or broader diplomatic considerations.
This move comes amid ongoing discussions about U.S.-Nigeria relations, immigration policies, and the treatment of African travelers seeking entry into the United States. Many Nigerians have already taken to social media to express their concerns, with some calling for urgent diplomatic engagement to address the issue.
As the situation unfolds, affected applicants are advised to stay updated on official embassy communications and prepare for potentially longer processing times.
This development raises questions about whether the policy is temporary or a long-term shift in the U.S. visa regime for Nigeria. Either way, it marks a new hurdle for Nigerians seeking to travel to the United States.
PIONEER NEWS 