The United States Mission in Nigeria has reaffirmed that visa application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, regardless of whether an application is approved or denied.
In a statement posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Tuesday, the Mission acknowledged widespread frustration among Nigerians whose applications are unsuccessful and who consequently lose the sums paid.
“We hear your concerns regarding U.S. visa application fees. Like most countries, U.S. visa fees cover the cost of processing the application, regardless of the outcome. While fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, each application is reviewed thoroughly and fairly,” the statement read.
The Mission explained that the fees are used to cover administrative costs, including staffing, security, and document verification, and are not a guarantee of approval.
The clarification follows mounting public complaints on social media about the financial burden faced by applicants, especially those repeatedly denied visas.
The U.S. Mission advised applicants to prepare diligently, comply with all requirements, and access free resources available on its official website to improve their chances of success.
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Why Nigerians Won’t Get Refunds on U.S. Visa Fees
The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has delivered a tough reminder to visa hopefuls: application fees will not be refunded or transferred—no matter the outcome.
In a message shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) page on Tuesday, the Mission admitted it is aware of the frustration and financial strain many Nigerians face when applications are denied.
“We hear your concerns regarding U.S. visa application fees. Like most countries, U.S. visa fees cover the cost of processing the application, regardless of the outcome. While fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, each application is reviewed thoroughly and fairly,” the Mission stated.
The explanation makes it clear: the money paid goes into covering processing costs—staff salaries, security, and document checks—and not as a down payment for approval.
This update comes as more Nigerians take to social media to lament losing thousands of naira on repeated applications that end in rejection.
Still, the Mission encouraged applicants to boost their chances by preparing carefully, following all rules, and using free guidance tools on the official U.S. embassy website.
