How Much is US Visa Fee in Naira at GTBank

How Much is US Visa Fee in Naira at GTBank?- Knowing the cost of obtaining a US visa is important for anyone planning to travel to the United States from Nigeria. Paying the visa fee is one of the first steps in the visa application process.

In Nigeria, GTBank (Guaranty Trust Bank) is a designated bank for paying US visa fees. In this article, we’ll discuss the various categories of US visa fees, their equivalent in Naira, and how you can pay these fees at GTBank.

What is a US Visa Fee?

The US visa fee, also known as the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee, is a non-refundable and non-transferable payment made to the US government for processing a visa application. The fee amount varies depending on the type of visa you’re applying for, and it is mandatory to pay this fee before scheduling your visa interview.

Categories of US Visa Fees

The visa fee depends on the type of visa you are applying for. Below are the major categories:

1. Non-Immigrant Visas (NIV)

These are temporary visas for individuals traveling to the US for a specific period. Examples include:

• B1/B2 (Tourist/Business Visa): For tourism, visiting family, or attending business meetings. The fee is $185.
• F1 (Student Visa): For international students admitted to US educational institutions. The fee is $185.
• H1B (Work Visa): For temporary workers in specialized fields. The fee is $205.

2. Immigrant Visas (IV)

These are for individuals planning to permanently relocate to the US. Common types include:

• Family-Sponsored Visa: For those sponsored by relatives in the US. Fee: $325.
• Employment-Based Visa: For those moving to the US for work. Fee: $345.

3. Special Visa Categories

Certain visa types have unique fee structures. Examples:

• K (Fiancé(e) Visa): For individuals engaged to US citizens. Fee: $265.
• E (Investor Visa): For investors and treaty traders. Fee: $315.

How to Calculate the Visa Fee in Naira

The visa fee is paid in Naira at GTBank, but it is first calculated in US dollars. To determine the exact amount in Naira, the US Embassy’s official exchange rate is used. This rate is updated periodically.

Example Calculation

Let’s assume the current exchange rate is ₦770/$:

• B1/B2 Visa Fee (Tourist/Business): $185 × ₦770 = ₦142,450
• F1 Visa Fee (Student): $185 × ₦770 = ₦142,450
• H1B Visa Fee (Work): $205 × ₦770 = ₦157,850

Note: The exchange rate can fluctuate, so always confirm the current rate before making payment.

How to Pay US Visa Fee at GTBank

To pay a US visa fee at GTBank, you have two convenient options: visiting a branch or using the bank’s internet banking platform. Below are detailed steps for each method:

Paying at a GTBank Branch

1. Prepare Your Documents: Bring a photocopy of your passport data page and the visa application receipt.
2. Indicate Visa Category: Write the visa category on the photocopy of your passport.
3. Make the Payment: Visit any GTBank branch and pay the amount stated on your visa application receipt to the cashier.
4. Receive and Verify Receipts: After payment, you’ll receive two copies of the payment receipt. Review them carefully, sign and confirm their accuracy.
5. Submit One Copy: Return one signed copy of the receipt to the counter.
6. Complete Your Application: Use the payment receipt to finalize your visa application on the U.S. Embassy website.

Paying Online via GTBank Internet Banking

1. Log In: Access the GTBank internet banking platform using your credentials.
2. Select Visa Fee Payment: Go to the “Transfer Menu” and choose “Visa Fee Payment.”
3. Fill Out the Form: Select “New Request,” complete the form, and choose your visa category. The system will automatically generate the required fee.
4. Authorize Payment: Reconfirm your details, authorize the payment, and complete the transaction.
5. Print Your Receipt: Save and print the payment receipt for your records. This will be needed to proceed with your visa application.

Visa Application Fees

• Most Nonimmigrant Visas: $185 (includes tourist, business, student, and exchange visitor visas).
• Petition-Based Visas: $190 (includes work and religious visas).

Following these steps ensures your visa fee payment is processed correctly, allowing you to proceed with your U.S. visa application.

Important Points to Note

• Non-Refundable Fees: Visa fees cannot be refunded, even if your application is denied.
• Validity of Payment: The visa fee receipt is valid for one year. You must schedule your interview within this period.
• Exchange Rate Fluctuations: Visa fees may vary slightly due to changes in the exchange rate.
• Alternative Payment Methods: Apart from GTBank, payment can also be made online via the official US visa portal.

How to Check the Current US Visa Fee in Naira

1. US Embassy Website: Regularly visit the US Embassy’s official website for updates on visa fees and exchange rates.
2. Contact GTBank: Call or visit a GTBank branch to confirm the exact amount before making payment.
3. Online Forums and Updates: Check forums or groups where other applicants share their recent payment experiences.

Why Use GTBank for Visa Fee Payment?

GTBank is one of the few banks authorized to process US visa fees in Nigeria. Here are some benefits:

• Wide Network: GTBank has branches across Nigeria, making it accessible to most applicants.
• Efficiency: The payment process is straightforward, with minimal delays.
• Trusted Partnership: The bank has a longstanding partnership with the US Embassy.

Common Issues and How to Resolve Them

• Incorrect Payment Details: Double-check your CGI reference number and passport details to avoid errors.
• Lost Payment Receipt: Keep your receipt safe. If lost, contact GTBank immediately for a duplicate.
• Delayed Confirmation: Payment confirmation can sometimes take up to 48 hours. Be patient and ensure your details are correct.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I pay the visa fee in cash at GTBank?

Yes, GTBank accepts cash payments for US visa fees. Ensure you carry the exact amount in Naira.

Can someone else pay on my behalf?

Yes, but ensure the payer uses your name and passport number as listed on your application.

Is there a deadline for paying the visa fee?

There’s no strict deadline, but the fee must be paid before scheduling your visa interview.