The mission issued the clarification in a post on its official X account on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, addressing the belief that applicants are entitled to refunds when they fail to obtain a visa.
It explained that the fee covers the cost of processing an application and does not guarantee approval or permission to travel to the United States.
According to the mission, the payment covers the application process through to a final decision. Applicants cannot request their money back simply because their visa applications have been refused.
The mission stated: “MYTH: If a U.S. visa application is refused, the applicant receives a refund.
“FACT: The fee paid is an application processing fee, not a payment for a visa to be issued.”
The clarification reflects the guidelines of the United States Department of State, which also confirms that visa application fees are non-refundable.
Information on the department’s official website explains that the fees cover the administrative costs involved in reviewing applications and reaching a decision, regardless of the outcome.
The department also warned that applicants whose visa requests are rejected under Section 214(b) of the US Immigration and Nationality Act must pay a new application fee if they choose to apply again.
The reminder highlights the importance of understanding visa application rules before making payments. Nigerian applicants are advised to recognise that paying the required fee covers the processing of their requests, not a guarantee that they will receive a visa.
