How To Pay US Visa Fee In Nigeria

Introduction.

If you’re planning a trip to the United States from Nigeria, one of the first steps is paying the visa fee. It’s a critical part of the process and can feel a little confusing at first. But don’t worry—I’m here to break it down into simple steps that anyone can follow.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to handle the payment process, avoid common mistakes, and keep your US visa application on track. Let’s get started!

Why Is Paying the Visa Fee Important?

The visa fee is a non-refundable payment required to process your US visa application. It’s also one of the first commitments you’ll make as part of the process, showing that you’re serious about applying. Without this payment, your application won’t move forward.

Understanding the payment process is important because it ensures there are no delays or errors, which could cost you time and money. Plus, knowing exactly what to do will make the whole process feel much less stressful.

How Do I Pay the US Visa Fee in Nigeria?

Here’s the complete process for paying your US visa fee if you’re applying from Nigeria.

1. Determine the Right Visa Category

Before paying the fee, figure out which visa type you’re applying for. Each visa type has a different fee, so knowing this upfront will save you time. Here’s a quick overview:

Tourist Visa (B1/B2): $185
Student Visa (F1, J1): $185
Work Visas (H1B, L1, O1): $205
Other Categories: Fees vary

Check the US Embassy Nigeria website for the latest fees.

2. Create a Profile on the CGI Federal Website

To pay the fee, you’ll need to create a profile on the CGI Federal website. This is the official payment platform for US visa fees. Follow these steps:

Visit the CGI Federal portal.
Click “New User” and enter your details.
Make sure all the information matches your passport and DS-160 form.

Once you’ve created the profile, log in to access the payment options.

3. Choose Your Payment Method

In Nigeria, there are three main ways to pay the visa fee:

Bank Deposit at GTBank

After logging into the CGI portal, generate a unique deposit slip.
Visit any GTBank branch with the slip to make the payment in cash.
Keep the receipt; you’ll need it to schedule your visa appointment.

Online Payment with a Card

If you have a Nigerian-issued debit or credit card, you can pay directly on the CGI platform.
Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions.

Mobile Banking (GTBank)

Use GTBank’s mobile app or USSD code to pay the visa fee.
You’ll still need the reference number from the CGI website.

4. Confirm Payment and Schedule Your Appointment

After paying, it can take up to 48 hours for your payment to be verified. Once it’s confirmed:

Log back into the CGI portal.
Select “Schedule Appointment” and choose your preferred date and time.

You’ll also need to upload your payment receipt and DS-160 confirmation page during this step.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To save yourself unnecessary stress, watch out for these common mistakes:

Using Incorrect Details: Make sure your name, passport number, and other details match across all documents.
Paying the Wrong Amount: Double-check the fee for your specific visa category.
Losing Your Receipt: The receipt is your proof of payment, so keep it safe.
Delaying Payment: Pay the fee as soon as you’re ready to apply; delays can push your appointment further out.

FAQs

1. Can I pay the fee in naira?

Yes, the visa fee is paid in naira, but it’s based on the current exchange rate set by the US Embassy. Check the CGI portal for the latest conversion rates.