Step-by-Step Breakdown of the US Visa Applicants New Directive

The United States Embassy has recently issued a new directive for visa applicants that will take effect for those with interviews scheduled after January 1, 2025. This directive mandates that applicants must visit the Consulate General in Lagos at least twice during their immigration visa process. The purpose of this requirement is to enhance the preparation of applicants for their visa interviews and to minimize potential delays in the processing of immigrant visas.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Directive

1. Initial Announcement: The US Embassy announced this directive through its official social media channels, specifically on X (formerly Twitter). This communication emphasizes the importance of these visits in streamlining the immigration process.
2. Two Required Visits:
   • First Visit – In Person Document Review: The first visit to the Consulate General in Lagos is designated for an In Person Document Review with a consular staff member. This review is crucial as it allows applicants to ensure that they have all necessary documents prepared before their actual visa interview. During this meeting, any missing documents can be identified and retrieved, which helps prevent delays later in the application process.
   • Second Visit – Interview with a Consular Officer: The second visit will involve an interview with a Consular Officer. The date for this interview will be scheduled by the National Visa Center (NVC). It is essential that applicants complete their first visit successfully; failure to do so may result in needing to reschedule their visa interview.
3. Objective of the Directive: The primary goal of this new process is to facilitate better preparation for applicants and reduce significant delays that can occur during the immigrant visa application process. By ensuring that all documentation is reviewed beforehand, the embassy aims to streamline operations and improve overall efficiency.
4. Consequences of Non-Compliance: If an applicant does not complete the In Person Document Review before their scheduled visa interview, they will be required to reschedule their appointment. This stipulation underscores the importance placed on these preliminary visits.