“MYTH: If a U.S. visa application is refused, the applicant receives a refund,” the mission stated.
Dismissing the claim, it explained that the payment is strictly an application processing fee rather than a payment for the issuance of a visa.
The mission added that the fee covers the cost of processing an application until a final decision is reached, irrespective of the outcome.
“It covers the cost of processing the application through a final decision, so the fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether the visa is issued or refused,” it said.
The clarification serves as a reminder to Nigerians planning to travel to the United States that p gymaying the required application fee does not guarantee that a visa will be granted.
The mission also advised applicants to obtain accurate information about visa requirements and procedures through the official website of the US Department of State.
It further warned visa seekers to be cautious of third-party consultants and fraudulent schemes promising guaranteed visas or refundable application deposits.
Applicants were advised to rely on official US government websites and follow established procedures to avoid falling victim to visa-related scams.
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United States Mission in Nigeria has warned Nigerians seeking American visas that application fees are non-refundable, regardless of whether their applications are approved or rejected.
The mission clarified that the fee covers the processing of visa applications and does not guarantee approval, urging prospective travellers to understand the rules before submitting their applications.
In a statement shared on its official social media account, @USinNigeria, on Wednesday, the mission debunked the misconception that applicants are entitled to refunds when their visa applications are unsuccessful.
