The United States Mission in Nigeria has introduced new procedural rules for visa interviews, which will come into effect from April 22, 2025.
In an official statement released on Friday via the mission’s website, applicants in both Lagos and Abuja are now required to present a DS-160 visa application form bearing a confirmation or barcode number that starts with “AA” followed by two zeros.
The mission emphasized that this barcode number must be identical to the one used to book the visa appointment. Any mismatch will prevent the applicant from entering the consular area or attending the interview.
“At least two weeks before your interview, please double-check that the barcode number on your DS-160 form matches the one you used to schedule your appointment,” the U.S. Mission advised.
Applicants were also reminded that old DS-160 forms from previous applications are no longer valid for reuse. “You cannot reuse a DS-160 from a previous application. If your DS-160 barcode is incorrect, you must log into your AVITS account at least 10 days before your appointment to create a support ticket requesting correction of your barcode number,” the statement added.
In addition, the U.S. Mission urged applicants to ensure their visa appointments are scheduled at the same location they selected while filling out the DS-160 form. The updated policy is intended to help improve the overall efficiency of the visa application process and reduce administrative issues.
Earlier this year, beginning January 1, a separate change was implemented requiring all visa applicants to visit the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos on two occasions as part of the application process.
April 11, 2025
New Requirement for Visa Interviews: Starting April 22, 2025, all visa applicants in Abuja and Lagos must bring a DS-160 visa application form with a confirmation/barcode number (starting with AA and followed by 00 – two zeroes) that matches the one used to make their appointment online. You also must make your appointment in the location you selected when filling out your DS-160.
Matching Barcode Numbers: If the confirmation/barcode number on your DS-160 form does not match the one you used to book your appointment, you will not be allowed to enter the Consular Section or attend your visa interview.
Double-Check Your Information: At least two weeks before your interview, please double-check that the barcode number on your DS-160 form matches the one you used to schedule your appointment. You cannot reuse a DS-160 from a previous application.
Correcting DS-160 Barcode: If your DS-160 barcode is incorrect, you must log into your AVITS account at at least 10 days before your appointment to create a support ticket requesting correction of your barcode number.
Rescheduling Appointments: If you are turned away from your appointment because your barcode numbers do not match, once you correct the problem, you will need to book a new appointment to proceed with your visa application. You may book a new appointment by logging into your AVITS account at If your visa fee has expired, you may have to pay a new fee before booking.
Contact Us for Help: If you have any questions or need help, please contact the visa call center for assistance.
+234 2013438900 or +1 734 418 2395 (from the U.S.)
nigeria@usvisaappt.com; or through the ChatBot and Click-To-Talk features embedded on the AVITS website.
