US visa fee Nigeria rises with new \$250 surcharge on non-immigrant visas, affecting students, tourists, and workers starting fiscal year 2025

Nigerians hoping to travel to the United States will now pay significantly more under a new policy. A \$250 Visa Integrity Fee will be added to non-immigrant visa applications starting in fiscal year 2025.

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This means that for a standard B1/B2 tourist or business visa, applicants from Nigeria will pay around \$435, nearly double the current \$185 rate.

The US says the charge aims to discourage overstaying and reward visa compliance. Refunds may be possible for travellers who leave within five days of visa expiry, but only after the visa has lapsed and if compliance is fully verified.

The refund is not automatic and failure to meet conditions means forfeiture of the fee.

Affected visa classes include student, exchange, and professional worker categories such as F, M, J, and H-1B. Diplomatic visa types remain exempt. The fee will also rise annually from 2026, based on inflation.

Nigerians are among the highest applicants for US visas in Africa. Education and travel experts fear the move could limit access for genuine students and professionals. Human rights advocates also argue that frequent policy changes unfairly target nations in the Global South.

President Bola Tinubu reportedly contacted US President Donald Trump to raise concerns following an earlier announcement on tougher visa rules. The timing of this new fee has raised further alarm.

“The financial and psychological cost of applying for a US visa is becoming unbearable,” said Abuja-based travel consultant Ibrahim Ayodele. “Many clients are now rethinking their plans.”

Applicants are urged to plan early, follow all instructions closely, and document their departure to remain eligible for any future refund. While the US has emphasised compliance, the refund process is complex and not guaranteed.

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The US insists the aim is deterrence, not punishment. However, Nigerian stakeholders believe the burden on law-abiding travellers is growing without fair recourse.