NIS Suspends US Visa Application Centers Indefinitely

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has announced the indefinite suspension of the services of Online Integrated Solution (OIS Services), the operator of Nigeria’s visa application centers in the United States, effective July 1.

This is contained in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by the Public Relations Officer (SPRO), Deputy Controller of Immigration (DCI), Mr Akinsola Akinlabi.

Akinlabi said the development affected potential travelers and Nigerians residing in the United States who needed visas to enter Nigeria.

According to him, all applicants seeking Nigerian visa are now required to submit their applications directly at the Embassy of Nigeria in Washington, DC, or at the Consulates General of Nigeria in New York and Atlanta.

The services spokesperson explained that the suspension of OIS services will remain in effect until further notice.

He, however, clarified that the directive only applies to visa applications submitted to Nigerian diplomatic missions in the United States.

He said the suspension did not affect Nigeria’s electronic visa (e-Visa) system.

“Applicants can continue to apply for e-Visa through the official online portal,” he said.

Akinlabi said the service has put in place adequate measures to ensure smooth submission, processing and issuance of visas, despite the suspension of visa application centres.

He urged applicants to monitor the official communication channels of the NIS and the Nigerian Mission in the United States for updates on visa application procedures.

The NIS spokesperson expressed appreciation to the applicants for their understanding and cooperation during the period.

He, however, reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Immigration Service to efficient service delivery.