The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) announced that the suspension took effect from July 1 and will remain in force until further notice.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by the Service Public Relations Officer, Deputy Comptroller of Immigration (DCI) Akinsola Akinlabi.
According to the NIS, all visa applicants in the United States are now required to process their applications through the Embassy of Nigeria in Washington, D.C., or the Consulates General of Nigeria in New York and Atlanta.
Akinlabi explained that the suspension is limited to visa application submissions handled by OIS Services and does not affect other aspects of Nigeria's visa processing framework.
He emphasized that Nigeria's electronic visa (e-Visa) platform remains fully operational, urging eligible travellers to continue using the online system for their applications.
“Applicants can continue to apply for e-Visas through the official online portal.”
The Immigration Service assured applicants that necessary arrangements have been made to prevent disruptions in visa processing despite the suspension of the Visa Application Centres.
According to the statement, adequate measures have been implemented to ensure the seamless submission, processing and issuance of visas through Nigeria's diplomatic missions in the United States.
The Service also advised intending travellers and other applicants to rely on official communication channels of the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Nigerian Embassy and Consulates in the United States for updated information on visa application procedures while the suspension remains in effect.
Akinlabi expressed appreciation to applicants for their patience, understanding and cooperation during the transition, reaffirming the Nigeria Immigration Service's commitment to delivering efficient and improved immigration services.