The Nigerian Immigration Service has suspended Online Integrated Solution (O15 SERVICES) as a third-party visa operator in the United States, directing all Nigerian visa applicants to apply directly through the Nigerian embassy in Washington, D.C., or consulates in New York and Atlanta. This decision, announced in a statement released on Thursday, takes effect from July 1, 2026, and applies specifically to physical visa applications submitted at embassy or consulate locations. The suspension does not impact the online e-visa system, which remains fully operational for travellers seeking digital visa issuance.
The Nigerian Immigration Service did not provide specific reasons for the suspension of O15 SERVICES, which had been managing visa application centres across the U.S. for Nigerian citizens and foreign nationals. However, the agency emphasized that the move is part of ongoing efforts to streamline visa processing and enhance service delivery. The statement assured the public that adequate measures have been put in place to ensure smooth and uninterrupted visa submission, processing, and issuance through official diplomatic channels.
Applicants are now advised to visit the Nigerian embassy in Washington, D.C., or the consulates in New York and Atlanta for in-person visa applications. The e-visa system, which allows applicants to complete the entire process online, remains unaffected and continues to serve those who prefer digital processing. This distinction is critical for travellers who may not be aware of the change and could mistakenly attempt to use O15 SERVICES’ physical centres.
The suspension comes amid broader changes in U.S. immigration policy. Last December, the U.S. government suspended visa processing for Nigerian applicants seeking B1, B2, F, M, and J visas, citing concerns over overstays during the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. This earlier restriction had already caused delays and frustration for many Nigerian travellers, and the latest suspension of O15 SERVICES may add further complexity to the application process.
Despite these challenges, the Nigerian Immigration Service remains committed to maintaining efficient visa services. The agency continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as necessary. For now, applicants are urged to use only official embassy and consulate channels for physical visa applications, while the e-visa system remains a viable and unaffected alternative.
This development underscores the importance of staying informed about visa policy changes, especially for Nigerians and foreign nationals planning to travel to the U.S. The shift may prompt increased traffic at diplomatic missions, but officials say they are prepared to handle the volume. As the global travel landscape evolves, Nigeria’s immigration authorities are adapting to ensure transparency and reliability in visa services.
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