How much is B1/B2 Visa Application Fee in Nigeria?

Base B1/B2 Visa Application Fee in Nigeria

The B1/B2 visa application fee in Nigeria is set by the U.S. Department of State and applies uniformly to nonimmigrant visa categories. As of April 2, 2025, the standard fee for the B1/B2 visa—covering business (B1) and tourism/medical treatment (B2)—is $185 USD. This amount, known as the Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fee, was increased from $160 USD on June 17, 2023, reflecting updated consular service costs. At an estimated parallel market exchange rate of ₦1,650 per USD, this translates to approximately ₦305,250 in Nigerian Naira. This fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether the visa is approved or denied, and must be paid before scheduling an interview.

Additional Costs for B1/B2 Visa Applicants in Nigeria

Beyond the base fee, several ancillary costs can affect how much the B1/B2 visa application costs in Nigeria:

• Visa Issuance Reciprocity Fee: Nigerians face an additional $110 USD (around ₦181,500 at ₦1,650/USD) reciprocity fee, payable only if the visa is approved. This brings the total potential cost to $295 USD or ₦486,750.
• Service Fees: Visa Application Centres (VACs) like TLScontact may charge ₦17,000 to ₦25,000 for appointment booking and document handling.
• Expedited Appointment Fee: For urgent travel, an emergency appointment request may incur extra costs, though specific fees vary and are not always guaranteed (typically $50-$100 USD, or ₦82,500-₦165,000 if approved).

These extras can significantly raise the total expense, depending on your circumstances.

Payment Process for the B1/B2 Visa Fee

The B1/B2 visa application fee in Nigeria is paid in Naira, calculated at the consular exchange rate on the payment date. Here’s how it works:

• Online Payment: Through the U.S. visa scheduling portal (e.g., ustraveldocs.com), you can pay via debit/credit card or bank transfer at designated banks like GTBank. The system converts $185 USD to Naira, often aligning closer to the official rate (e.g., ₦1,600/USD = ₦296,000), though parallel rates may apply at VACs.
• Cash at Bank: Generate a payment slip online, then pay at a GTBank branch, retaining the receipt for your interview.

We recommend confirming the exact Naira amount at the time of payment, as rates fluctuate.

Exchange Rate Impact on B1/B2 Visa Costs

The Naira’s volatility directly influences how much the B1/B2 visa fee is in Nigeria. At ₦1,650 per USD, the base fee is ₦305,250, but:

• If the rate rises to ₦1,800, it becomes ₦333,000 (plus ₦198,000 reciprocity, totaling ₦531,000).
• If it drops to ₦1,500, it’s ₦277,500 (plus ₦165,000, totaling ₦442,500).

Monitor rates via the Central Bank of Nigeria or forex platforms to optimize your timing.

B1/B2 Visa Fee Waivers and Exemptions

Few exemptions apply to the B1/B2 visa application fee in Nigeria:

• U.S. Government-Sponsored Travelers: Participants in official programs may be exempt, though rare for Nigerians.
• Children: No age-based waivers; all applicants, including minors, pay $185 USD.

The reciprocity fee may be waived for renewals under the Interview Waiver Program if prior conditions are met, but the MRV fee remains mandatory.

How to Apply and Pay for the B1/B2 Visa in Nigeria

The process ties directly to the fee payment:

• Complete the DS-160 form online at the U.S. Consular Electronic Application Center.
• Pay the $185 USD fee (approximately ₦305,250) via the visa portal or GTBank.
• Schedule an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Abuja or Consulate in Lagos via TLScontact.
• If approved, pay the $110 USD reciprocity fee (around ₦181,500) post-interview.

Bring payment receipts and your passport to the interview.

Comparing B1/B2 Fees to Other Visa Types

Contextualizing the B1/B2 visa fee in Nigeria:

• F-1 Student Visa: $185 USD (₦305,250), plus SEVIS fee ($350 USD, ~₦577,500).
• H-1B Work Visa: $205 USD (₦338,250), with additional petition costs.
• K-1 Fiancé Visa: $265 USD (₦437,250).

The B1/B2 remains one of the more affordable nonimmigrant options.

Why the B1/B2 Visa Fee Matters

The B1/B2 visa application fee in Nigeria—starting at ₦305,250—is a gateway to U.S. opportunities, from business meetings to family reunions. While costly, its five-year validity (for Nigerians, down from ten years previously) offers long-term value for frequent travelers.

Tips to Manage B1/B2 Visa Costs

Reduce expenses with these strategies:

• Pay early when the Naira is stronger to lock in a lower rate.
• Avoid agents charging excessive markups; use official channels.
• Prepare thoroughly to prevent denial and wasted fees.
• Check for Interview Waiver eligibility on renewals to skip extra costs.

The Bottom Line on B1/B2 Visa Fees

As of April 2025, how much the B1/B2 visa application fee is in Nigeria totals $185 USD (₦305,250 at ₦1,650/USD), with a potential $295 USD (₦486,750) including reciprocity. This investment unlocks access to the U.S., making it a pivotal expense for Nigerian applicants. For updates, visit travel.state.gov.