Travelers within the United States who require a visa to enter Nigeria must now submit their applications directly to the Nigerian Embassy and its regional consulates following an immediate policy shift by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).
The directive comes after the immigration authority officially disengaged Online Integrated Solution (OIS Services), the long-standing third-party enterprise that previously operated Nigeria’s primary visa application and submission centers across the US.
The policy overhaul was announced via a formal statement issued by the Service Public Relations Officer, Deputy Controller of Immigration Akinsola Akinlabi.
While the official communication confirmed that the private operator had been disengaged effective immediately, the immigration authority did not disclose the specific regulatory or contractual factors prompting the sudden termination.
“Travellers seeking Nigerian visas are now required to submit their applications directly at the embassy of Nigeria in Washington, DC, or at the consulates of Nigeria in New York and Atlanta until further notice,” Akinlabi stated.
In the wake of the sudden transition, the NIS sought to reassure prospective applicants and international travelers that the diplomatic missions are fully prepared to absorb the operational demands.
The immigration agency conveyed firm assurances that the Washington embassy, along with the consulates in New York and Atlanta, have implemented comprehensive measures to facilitate a seamless transition for the submission, processing, and subsequent issuance of entry visas.
To prevent logistical delays, immigration officials are advising all prospective applicants to closely monitor the verified digital communication channels of the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Nigerian Mission in the United States for real-time updates regarding application queues and localized submission protocols.
The statement concluded with the agency affirming that the NIS remains fundamentally committed to maintaining high standards of institutional efficiency and service delivery throughout the transition period.
