NIS scraps third-party visa service

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has abruptly ended its contract with its third-party visa application service provider in the United States, directing all visa applicants to submit their applications directly to the country's Embassy and Consulates. The decision, announced by NIS Public Relations Officer Akinsola Akinlabi, takes immediate effect.

Until this change, Online Integrated Solution (OIS) Services had been managing Nigeria's visa application and submission centers across the U.S. While Akinlabi did not specify the reasons for the disengagement, he assured that the Embassy and Consulates are prepared to ensure a smooth process for visa submissions, processing, and issuance.

“

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.

Applicants are advised to stay informed by monitoring the official communication channels of the NIS and the Nigerian mission in the U.S. for any further updates on the visa application procedures. Akinlabi reiterated the NIS's commitment to efficient service delivery.

This move aligns with the Federal Government's broader efforts to streamline consular services and reduce the complexities often associated with visa processing for both Nigerians abroad and foreign nationals wishing to visit Nigeria. Industry stakeholders have previously advocated for increased transparency and direct oversight in visa processing to combat delays and excessive charges frequently linked to third-party operators.

“

The NIS remains committed to providing efficient service delivery.