Game-Changer: New US Visa Interview Rules Nigerians Must Know

According to a statement on the mission’s site on Friday, the new requirements take effect on April 22.

Visa applicants in Abuja and Lagos are required to provide a DS-160 visa application form with a confirmation/barcode number that starts with "AA" and two zeroes, according to the announcement.

According to the US mission, the code needs to be the same as the one they used to make their online appointment.

The mission cautioned that if the alignment is not confirmed, admission into the consular area or the visa interview will be refused.

The mission further stated, "Please confirm that the barcode number on your DS-160 form corresponds to the one you used to make your appointment at least two weeks prior to your interview."

The mission also encouraged applicants to ensure that their appointment is made at the place indicated during the DS-160 application procedure. The adjustments are part of the efforts of the consulate to provide a smoother “visa processing”.

All visa applicants were required to make two trips to the Consulate General in Lagos as part of the application process beginning of January 1.

View the entire statement below:

11 April 2025

A DS-160 visa application form with a confirmation/barcode number (beginning with AA and followed by 00 – two zeroes) that matches the one used to schedule their appointment online must be brought by all visa applicants in Abuja and Lagos beginning April 22, 2025.

Additionally, you need to schedule your appointment at the place you designated on your DS-160.

Matching Barcode Numbers: You will not be permitted to enter the Consular Section or attend your visa interview if the confirmation/barcode number on your DS-160 form does not correspond to the one you used to make your appointment.

Verify Your Information: Please confirm that the barcode number on your DS-160 form corresponds to the one you used to make your appointment at least two weeks prior to your interview. A DS-160 from a prior application cannot be used again.

Fixing DS-160 Barcode: You must open a support ticket requesting a correction of your barcode number by logging into your AVITS account at least ten days prior to your appointment if your DS-160 barcode is inaccurate.

Rescheduling Appointments: You will need to schedule a new appointment in order to continue with your visa application if you are denied an appointment because your barcode numbers do not match. By signing into your AVITS account, you can schedule a new appointment at You might need to pay a new cost before making a reservation if your visa fee has expired.

Contact Us for Assistance: Please get in touch with the Visa call center if you need assistance or have any questions.