Report shows that Nigerian applicants spent ₦50.7 billion on US non-immigrant visas between 2023-2024 despite 23% drop in approvals from 113,900 to 87,300 amid tighter immigration policies.
US Department of State data showed 201,200 non-immigrant visas were issued during the two years while B1/B2 tourism/business visas made 83%, F1 student visas 7%. Standard fee was $185 per applicant.
This shows that an applicants spent an estimated $37.2 million equivalent to ₦50.7 billion at an average exchange rate of ₦1,360 to the dollar.
Despite the heavy financial investment by applicants, overall visa issuances fell by approximately 23 per cent, dropping from 113,900 in 2023 to 87,300 in 2024. Business and tourism (B1/B2) visas made up the bulk of the approvals at 83 per cent, followed by student (F1) visas at seven per cent, and exchange visitor (J1) visas.
Trump-era measures hit Nigerians: single-entry 3-month visas mid-2025, mandatory 5-year social media disclosure, Lagos processing consolidation, plus expanded travel restrictions from 2026.
Experts said Nigerians still travel for business and school, not permanent relocation. Unpredictable approvals now push travelers toward UK and Schengen with clearer pathways.
