How to Book US Visa Interview Appointment in Nigeria

If you want to travel to the United States of America from Nigeria, one of the most important steps in your visa application is booking the visa interview appointment with the American Embassy or Consulate.

In this updated 2025 guide, you’ll learn:

• Where the US Embassy and Consulate are in Nigeria
• Why booking an appointment is compulsory
• Step-by-step instructions to book online or by phone
• Updated requirements you must follow before your interview
• Tips to succeed at your interview

US Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria

In Nigeria:

• The United States Embassy is located in Abuja (Federal Capital Territory)
• The U.S. Consulate General is in Lagos State

Embassies are the main diplomatic headquarters, while consulates help with consular services like visa processing. Both locations conduct visa interviews for Nigerians.

Why You Must Book a Visa Appointment

Booking a visa interview appointment is mandatory for all U.S. visa applicants in Nigeria.
You cannot enter the embassy or consulate for your interview without an official appointment.

This is part of the U.S. visa application process to ensure security and proper scheduling. U.S. visas are issued to eligible applicants only after an interview with a consular officer.

Updated US Visa Interview Requirements (Nigeria)

Before your interview, note the new rules introduced in April 2025:

 DS-160 Barcode Rule

Every applicant must show a DS-160 confirmation page with a barcode starting with “AA00” that exactly matches the barcode used during your online appointment scheduling. If the barcode doesn’t match or is from a different DS-160, you will be denied entry to the consular section and your interview will be canceled. (The Telegraph Nigeria)

 Same Location Rule

You must book your visa interview in the same city (Abuja or Lagos) you selected when submitting your DS-160 form. (The Guardian Nigeria)

 Lagos Two-Step Visit

For immigrant visas, applicants must now visit the U.S. Consulate in Lagos at least twice — first for an In-Person Document Review, and then for the visa interview itself. (Travel)

Important: Check your DS-160 barcode alignment at least two weeks before your scheduled interview. (Beyond Border)

How to Book Your US Visa Interview Appointment (Step-by-Step)

1. Book Online (Recommended)

1. Go to the official appointment site: cgifederal,secure. force.com
2. Create a profile using a valid email address
3. Complete the DS-160 form and print your confirmation page
4. Log in and use the profile to schedule your visa interview
5. Choose Abuja or Lagos as your interview location
6. Ensure your DS-160 barcode (AA00…) matches your appointment

2. Book via Call Centre

You can also call the visa appointment service centre:

• From Nigeria: +234 201 227 8955
• From the U.S.: +1 703 520 2575

An agent will help you schedule the appointment.

Note: Phone booking may take longer than the online process.

Important Documents for Your Interview

Before attending your US visa interview, make sure you have:

✔ Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your planned stay
✔ DS-160 confirmation page with valid barcode that matches your appointment
✔ MRV visa payment receipt (usually paid at GTBank in Nigeria)
✔ Valid email address and phone number for communication
✔ Immunization records (if required for your visa type)
✔ Appointment confirmation letter

Additionally, medical examination by an approved physician may be required for some visa types. (VisaVerge)

 

Tips to Pass Your US Visa Interview

Here are practical tips to help your interview go smoothly:

🔹 Arrive early — at least 15 minutes before your appointment
🔹 Dress neatly and professionally
🔹 Take only what’s required — avoid big bags, food, or laptops
🔹 Have your documents neatly arranged
🔹 Be honest and confident when answering questions
🔹 Expect security screening (metal detector and fingerprint scans)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using an old DS-160 form
❌ Booking interview in a different location than on your form
❌ Carrying bulky items into the embassy
❌ Not checking barcode alignment ahead of time

Conclusion

Booking and attending your US visa interview in Nigeria is straightforward when you follow the latest rules and requirements. Early preparation — including the correct DS-160 form and appointment scheduling — helps avoid delays or denial of entry. Visit the official appointment portal and prepare all your documents before your scheduled date.