In a statement released on its website on October 9, 2024, the embassy noted, “We recognize the challenges that many visa applicants are experiencing as we roll out the new system.
A number of these issues have already been addressed, and we are diligently working to resolve the remaining challenges as quickly as possible. We apologize for the frustration and inconvenience that many visa applicants have faced during this transition. We expect that all applicants will soon notice improvements in processing times.”
The embassy emphasized that the consular sections in both Abuja and Lagos are dedicated to maintaining a high level of customer service and are continuing to offer a full range of services while tackling the current challenges.
On August 26, 2024, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria initiated a shift to a new visa appointment system, making Nigeria one of the first countries globally to adopt this new approach. The objective of this system is to simplify the process of securing visa appointments at the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and its consulate in Lagos, enhancing transparency for all visa applicants in Nigeria.
Despite these intentions, the new system has faced its share of difficulties, with applicants reporting delays in both securing appointments and processing applications.