Niamey, Thursday, November 28, 2024

For Immediate Release

U.S. Embassy Niamey Highlights the Role of Consular Affairs Section in Serving the Nigerien Public

Niamey, Niger — The United States Embassy in Niamey is pleased to highlight the essential services provided by its Consular Affairs Section, dedicated to fostering strong relations between the United States and Niger through a range of consular services. In 2024, over 1,000 Nigeriens traveled to the United States, doubling the number of travelers from 2023.

These services include visa processing, assistance to U.S. citizens in distress, and vital information and support for educational and cultural exchange programs.  Our consular work strengthens the interpersonal and intercultural bonds that are foundational to the U.S.-Niger relationship.

Visa Services: Our consular team diligently processes visas for Nigerien citizens who wish to travel to the United States for tourism, business, study, or cultural exchange. These opportunities not only benefit the travelers but also contribute to the mutual understanding and respect between our two countries. Applying for a visa involves completing an application form (DS-160), scheduling an interview, and paying the non-refundable application fee of $160 for most non-immigrant visas. Detailed instructions, requirements and forms are available at https://ne.usembassy.gov/fr/visas-fr/important-visa-information-fr/ and https://evisaforms.state.gov/Instructions/SchedulingSystem.asp

Diversity Visa Program: Additionally, the Consular Affairs Section manages applications for the Diversity Visa Program, which offers a unique opportunity for eligible Nigerien citizens to receive a United States Permanent Resident Card.  There is no cost to apply for the Diversity Visa Program, and applicants are selected randomly.  The online registration for the DV-2026 ended on November 7, 2024.  Annually, during September and October, the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs releases information about the free online entry application.  For more information, deadlines, and application guidelines, please visit the official DV lottery site at https://dvprogram.state.gov.

Assistance to U.S. Citizens: The Consular Affairs Section offers a comprehensive range of services to U.S. citizens residing in or visiting Niger.  This includes providing assistance in emergencies, offering passport services, and ensuring the well-being of Americans abroad.

Cultural and Educational Exchanges: The Consular Affairs Section helps to facilitate travel for educational and professional exchanges that provide Nigerien scholars, students, and professionals with the opportunity to study, enriching both of our countries.  Some of these programs include the Fulbright Scholarship, Mandela Washington Fellowship, and the International Visitors Leadership Program.  Since 2022, more than 500 Nigeriens have been studying or traveled to the U.S. on professional exchanges in the United States.

The U.S. Embassy in Niamey remains committed to providing excellent service and strengthening the bonds between the United States and Niger through its Consular Affairs Section.  For more information on consular services, please visit our website at ne.usembassy.gov.

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