In a statement issued Friday, the Mission emphasized that the decision to reduce most non-immigrant visas to single-entry, three-month validity was based strictly on security and technical standards applied worldwide.

“This reduction is not the result of any nation’s stance on third-country deportees, introduction of e-visa policies, or affiliations with groups like BRICS,” the statement clarified.

The US Mission reaffirmed that the change does not reflect any deterioration in US-Nigeria relations. Instead, it is part of efforts to maintain the integrity of the US immigration system.

“We remain committed to working closely with the Nigerian public and government officials to help them meet those criteria and benchmarks, thereby ensuring safe, lawful, and mutually beneficial travel between our nations,” the statement added.

The clarification comes in response to public concern over the shift from the previous five-year multiple-entry visa policy to a more restrictive three-month single-entry format.

While the new policy marks a significant change for Nigerian travellers, the Mission assured that the US remains dedicated to fostering strong bilateral

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The damage resulted from the shockwaves of nearby impacts as Iran fired dozens of missiles at Israeli targets in retaliation for Israel’s earlier strike on Iranian military facilities. The attack marks a sharp escalation in hostilities between the two longtime adversaries and has intensified fears of broader conflict across the Middle East.

“Some minor damage from concussions of Iranian missile hits near the Embassy Branch in Tel Aviv, but no injuries to US personnel,” Ambassador Huckabee posted on X. He added that the US Embassy in Jerusalem would remain closed for the day as shelter-in-place orders remained active.

The exchange follows an Israeli operation that reportedly targeted military and nuclear facilities in Iran, killing several top military figures and atomic scientists. In response, Iran launched its most direct and aggressive assault yet on Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv.

Images from the scene showed charred buildings and debris scattered across parts of the city, though Israeli defense systems intercepted a significant portion of the incoming missiles.

As the crisis deepens, international concerns are mounting. A senior US official disclosed that President Donald Trump intervened over the weekend to discourage Israel from targeting Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, urging restraint. While Trump has pushed for diplomatic engagement, he acknowledged on Sunday that “sometimes they have to fight it out” before peace can be reached.

The renewed tensions between Israel and Iran risk drawing other regional powers into a prolonged conflict, as global powers monitor the situation with growing alarm.

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Barcode Rules Get Stricter

Beginning April 22, 2025, the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria will enforce stricter rules for visa applicants. Anyone applying for a U.S. visa in Abuja or Lagos must now make sure that the barcode number on their DS-160 form matches the one used to book their visa appointment. If the numbers don’t match, the applicant will not be allowed into the embassy for their interview.

Stick to the Same Location

The embassy also requires applicants to attend their interview at the same location selected on the DS-160 form. For example, if you choose Lagos when filling out the form, you must schedule your appointment in Lagos—not Abuja. The barcode on the DS-160 must begin with “AA00” and must not come from a reused or outdated application.

Mismatches Will Lead to Rejection

Those with incorrect barcodes or mismatched locations will be turned away. They’ll need to fix the problem and book a new appointment. If their visa fee has expired by then, they may have to pay again before rescheduling.

How to Fix a Mistake

The embassy advises applicants to check their DS-160 barcode at least two weeks before their interview date. If something is wrong, log into your AVITS account and submit a support ticket at least 10 days before your appointment. This will allow time to correct the barcode and avoid missing your interview.

DS-160 Form Basics

The DS-160 form is free to fill out and stays valid once submitted. However, if there’s a long delay without any progress, it may expire and need to be completed again. Visa fees vary depending on the type of visa and must be paid separately.

Visa Types Affected

This new rule affects many visa categories. These include B1/B2 for business and tourism, K visas for spouses and fiancés, F-1 and M-1 for students, J-1 for exchange programs, and H-1B, L-1, O-1, and P visas for workers and professionals.

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