Socialwork4god

Hello Everyone,

I applied for a tourist visa to Nigeria and filed at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington D.C. Does anyone know how I will know if it was approved? Do I have to wait until I get my passport back in the mail with the visa inside to know that it was approved? I leave Friday and am getting a bit nervous. I figured out I should have my passport back by Monday or Tuesday but, I can't find any place online that tells me whether it was approved or not so I'm just getting nervous. Thanks!

Yea, my fiance is a very picky eater. He mostly eats rice, beans, punded yams, and fish. I can eat pretty much all of that. Plus, he plans to take me to resturants occasionally for "american" food haha. I told him I'm fine with eating what he eats. I don't have any food allergies and I'm okay with spice for the most part lol. This is all very helpful info tho. Thanks!

Thanks for the heads up Deabara about leaving Nigeria. That will come in very handy. Also, I'm already very unsure about what foods I will try and which ones I will not. but, I'm on a pretty strict diet because I had bariatric surgery a month ago and can only have soft chew foods currently. Lastly, the thing you said about chocolate is so true! My fiancé told me not to spend money on getting his any gifts...just bring chocolate! lol.

Be sure to get an electrical converter if you use your charger in the wall or it won't fit/work.

Go here to view the type you need: http://www.adaptelec.com/index.php?main_page=document_general_info&products_id=230

I already have a converter but, thank you.

I am on my way back to Legos Friday the 25th of September. No need to pack food or beverages because you can not take it into the states or bring food back from Nigeria. Clothing dress comfortable it will be hot and also this is rainy season. Make sure your you have tissue, towels depending on where you staying some hotels do not provide a lot of our needs. There are limited next to non public restroom. When leaving airport left your fiance handle things don't exchange money at airport with nobody. Go to bank. Have an open mind about everything you see and experience. But I love it

thank you for the heads up. Good luck and enjoy your time. One of my friends just left last night to go to Nigeria. I believe she arrived earlier today. I'm getting super excited to go.

Wow...thank you so much everyone!!! 99balloons...thanks for all the advice about what to pack and places to visit. I have a phone charger which plugs into both a wall outlet and the car so I think I'll take that one. Yes, he is Yoruba and he doesn't have any sisters but, his mom should be around and I have a feeling she is a very sweet lady. I already have an appointment with my local Passport Health office to get any vaccines that are needed and/or required for my trip and they will also inform me of anything I need to know for my trip such as meds to take for travelers diarrhea or bug sprays. I'm pretty sure they will also give me the Malaria meds and such. They don't take insurance but, I'll be able to send it in later for reimbursement. You all have been so incredibly helpful. Now, if you all could just talk to my family and explain to them why I'm doing this and don't fear I'm going to be killed while I'm there haha...that would be great. I had a discussion/argument with my dad today about going and he's set that it's not safe and that I'm never coming back home. It hurts my feelings that they don't trust that I wouldn't go if I didn't feel it was safe. I trust my fiancé and know that he will do everything in his power to keep me safe while I'm there with him.

So, as far as gifts go....you guys don't recommend having "gifts" in order to get me through customs or anything like that easier, correct? Just taking gifts for my new family? I don't plan on giving anyone money because I don't have it to give.

The Lagos airport is very small. Make sure that your fiance meets you outside because while everyone speaks english, they speak so low and it is very overwhelming. Take $100 bills with you as they get a better exchange rate than lower bills. I learned this when I did not get the posted rate because I has $20 bills, but the rate I got was still better than I had expected. Exchange just a little money at the airport, say 200-300 dollars and the rest when you get to the place that you are going. Insist that the clerk gives you some small bills and not all 1000 Naira notes. THis happened to me and of course no one ever has change. Take Lyson (a big can), deep woods deet, maybe a few misquito repellant bracelets, some gifts (don't over do it at all), some tylenol, pepto bismal, neosporan, bandaids, an outlet adapter for your electronics, a sim enabled cell phone, long sleeved shirts (for the misquitos), old tennis shoes (lots of red clay dirt that turns to nasty mud because of the rain), do NOT forget to pack a toothbrush. The tooth brushes sold over there are hard enough to take the enamel off the teeth Soap, wet wipe for using the restroom when you are in town, clorox whips to whip stuff down. That is about all that I can think of.

You dont need to pack water because just about every where sells water for maybe 50 cent to 1 dollar so that isn't an issue. Just make sure that you drink bottled water and not the water in the bags. Everything is relatively cheap in nigeria. A ticket to the movie is about $2.50 or 500 Naira.

What kind of gifts should I bring and is it required? Can I get away with saying I don't have anything for them and their family?? Thanks!

Oh yes!!! Suya is my favorite! So good!

OP, I'm going today to buy a fan from Home Depot- not sure if you have those in NY but the 5in battery powered fans are like $6 and have really good reviews on amazon.

http://www.homedepot.com/p/O2Cool-5-in-Battery-Operated-Portable-Fan-FD05004/203121391

thanks hun! I almost forgot about the fan!!! lol....I'm going to need that! Also, did you buy the adapter for like your phone charger so you can charge it while you are there? I looked into buying one but, I was nervous to commit because they look weird and I don't want to buy the wrong thing haha.

Great advice is already shared in the posts. If you plan to stay a long time, it would be a good idea to immunize fully. Also when you arrive there, go to the U.S. Embassy and let them know where you will be staying. Make sure your fiancé meets you at the front of the exit door for people will overwhelm you with their presence. Do not pay anyone anything once you are at baggage claim. You will be asked for money but stay strong and say NO. Yes, take hundred dollar bills but ask your fiancé what year? For the black market prefers newer bills and lady time I went it was 2008 and newer. Eating stuff on the street is not something I advice for the hygiene is not in best conditions. I preferred eating at in laws and restuarants. I also went to the shop rite for veggies, fruits and so on. Don't take water with you for there is plenty there. Tooth brush is a must. Toilet paper too. Their paper there is like sand paper! Lol if you can find a battery operated little fan buy it! Take extra batteries too. When the electricity goes out, this will be very handy. Pack light clothes and be ready for a torally new experience! Good luck!

Thank you so much!!! All of this advice is definitely putting my mind at ease!

Thank you! Good advice about foods

When I went for the first time, I went to a travel clinic prior to my departure. I got the required yellow fever and a script for anti malaria pills,, immodium, and cipro (an antibiotic in case of food poisoning). they also gave me a lot of boosters and a tetanus shot. When I arrived, i was not prepared to deal with the slick officers inside the airport. They tried hustling me for money at every corner, but of course I didnt know that so I was irritating them more by being confused. Like they would say "where is your white paper"....what white paper? "your white paper, your white paper"....geez. when they realized i wasnt going to just hand over money because I didn't know that's what they wanted,...the one guy just said "get the F*** out of here!! wow, welcome to Nigeria!! Have your fiance meet you right outside the airport. Dont let anyone "assist" you with your bags..Just tell them "dont worry". There is no need to bring water. ...that is a total waste of space and weight in your bag..there is bottled water sold everywhere you look. I'm not going to lie, my first couple visits there, whenever i was in a car, whether it was taxi or private car, if a police officer saw me in the vehicle, he pulled us over. He'd start swatting the vehicle with his baton til we stopped and let him in the car. Everyone was harassed until we gave up money and then we were allowed to go. This honestly happened every single day i was there. Apart from that, Victoria Island is really pretty and they have a silverbird cinema where you can go to watch movies pretty reasonably priced. There is also the beaches, where you could just sit and enjoy music without it costing a lot of money. Transportation is cheap,, but let your fiance do the negotiating because they will try to give you the Oyinbo price. Like another poster said, 100's and even 50's get exchanged at a better rate than the lower bills and do some scouting around to find the best exchange, they do not all pay the same. Stay safe, have fun, best wishes!!

Thank you for your help!!

Wow! Thanks everyone!! That's very helpful. HFM181818...you're a bit mean....why would you berate the country where it's obvious that we have loved one at?! I pray your loved one does not live in Nigeria because I wouldn't want to deal with your rude comments.

Freddie!! thanks girl!

and tomyka81 thanks for the advice.

I do and I have but, I am just looking for more information perhaps from American's who have visited and understand where I'm coming from.

Hello everyone,

I'm looking for individuals who live in Nigeria or have visited. I will be visiting soon and am just looking for any advice or information that will help me to know what to expect. I've heard the airport is a scary and difficult place so I'm looking for what people's experiences were there. I'm also trying to figure out how to pack for my trip. I know it's going to be hot but, I've heard I should pack bottled water and such and not sure how necessary that is. Also, what are nice yet cheap things to do in Lagos and Ibadan? Thank you so much!!!!

I'm aware that the fiancé visa is different then the spousal visa. I previously filed the k1 but have not heard anything yet. I fear it will be denied for reasons that most people here know. So, I'm going to visit my fiancé in October and plan to spend some time with him. We discussed getting married while I was there but, have decided not to. But, when I return home we will be withdrawing our previous petition and re-filing. thank you for your concern and help though.

I noticed you have filed for a K1 visa. What stage are you in? Have you already had your interview? My husband and I married after our K1 was denied. Is that the situation you are in? I am asking because if you are still in the K1 process and you get married it changes everything. You will have to stop the K1 and file CR-1 (for spouses). I think Im correct, but if I'm wrong one of the other members can correct me.

I didn't read all of the posts here so I'm sorry if this was already discussed.

Most of my conversations with my fiancé have been via FB Messenger and FB calling. Does anyone know if there is a way to access those types of documents or logs? I plan to email Facebook but, wanted to check here first. Thanks!

Hello VJ,

I saw this thread in another region and thought it would be a good topic to discuss. You can call me Meesh and Hubby is Vic. We go by hashtag #TeamMicVic. (Cute right lol ).

Anyway we were married July 31st 2014. Did I say I just loove Vic! Not in a foolish little girl, naive way but in a been there done that, finally found my match kind of way. Guess what? Vic is about 10 yrs younger but we look good together we think. The age difference has not been an issue at all. Yes his Mom was a bit taken back but Vic lovingly explained to her that this is the 21st century and after all the disappointing past relationships with women his age, he was ready for a serious minded woman who wasn't only interested in his bank account or lack thereof if you will lol. Hnestly, I never thought I would date or marry someone 10 yrs younger but it has been the BEST experience by far. Vic says "Meesh you might be older chronologically, but the experiences ive passed thru here in Lagos makes me much older than you mentally" . Its true...im still a big baby in a grown woman kind of way. He pampers me and spoils me the way I need to be. His family and I get along super well. Age hasnt been an issue especially when u see your brother, cousin, uncle genuinely happy after so many failed relationships. Anyway back to the topic. Right before we landed I hustled to the restroom and freshened up. Fixed my hair, brushed, sprayed and changed into my sexy heels and skinny jeans. Vic (hubby) is FINE and I wanted to make sure I represented. So I get off the plane, go thru customs and began looking for this 5ft 11 , 230 pound, chocolate, with dimples hunk of a man, with arms like rambo lol. Finally I here someone shout "MICH" , I turn around and eyes light up and I scream like those contestants on the price is right. We ran to each other and locked lips right in front of everyobe. Vic isnt shy and I love that. This was myfirst indication that he was pleased with wat he saw, yes 10 yrs older and all. Who said being older is an issue? Not with us. Needless to say the chemistry was UNREAL. His friend drove the car and we held each othet so tight the whole ride back. Did I say butterflies like I felt in high school were runnning thru both of us. He looked at me and said Meesh , you are BEAUTIFUL. I love Vic. For the first time in my life im genuinely happy. Everything is transparent. We share face book, watsapp, bbm, viber passwords and accounts. Evertime I wake up one of my pics are posted on his wall. I went down this journey before but this time I finally got it right. #TeamMicVic!! For life!! (Sorry for any typos)

This is such a beautiful story and I can't wait to have that moment with my baby in two months. I'm so crazy excited yet incredibly nervous. I know he loves me and all but, I've always been the type of girl who cares too much of what other people think of me and how I look. I'm having bariatric surgery in a few short weeks and so by the time I get to Nigeria I could be around 30 pounds lighter than I am now yet, still fear I will be too consumed by how I look and if he still loves me. I know deep down that he will but it's just a nervousness I have. I'm super excited to meet his family and friends and just spend 9 days doing whatever it is he does in his everyday life.

Thanks for sharing your story and putting a smile on my face and hope in my heart!

Sure you can apply early. Lately they been giving 2 year entry. But you could also be giving a 6 month entry. But please allow yourself some time for processing (I assume you already have passport). So give yourself a cushion of a month just in case).

Glad you are going you will so enjoy 9ja truly and your parents take them online and show them sites (banana island, Victoria island, Abuja). It's a picturesque beautiful place you will be treated like you are the Queen of America. Truly.

Awesome thank you!

Hey, another question. When I travel to nigeria on the tourist visa...can I apply online early ( 2 months before I plan to pay or go ) or should I wait until it's closer to the time I plan to go? Thanks.

So, question. Some have said yes and other no to this but, what exactly would be a declaration of spinsterhood and bachelorhood? I'm not nor have I ever been married but, how do they expect me to prove that?

Thanks everyone!

Great advise

you can only file for the ITIN when you file tax returns in the spring / IRS form W 7

getting the ITIN is helpful as it allows you with a POA from him ( I would get him to sign one whille in Nigeria) to add to bank account showing to USCIS you comingle funds. He can not have debit card till he signs in person at your bank.

Take the I 130 as the others said to Nigeria as there is one line (his name and address) that must be written in his native language

Thank you. His native language is actually English but, perhaps he could add it in Yoruba too...haha.

There is a requirement to post a ban at the registry 21 days before you marry, both parties do NOT have to be there. It can all be done by one party. http://www.nigeria-law.org/Marriage%20Act.htm read this to know exactly what is required. Be aware that a traditional marriage only can fall into the not married enough for a CR1 too married for a K1 in the silly ways of the Lagos consulate.

That link is a bit confusing to me but, thank you! I will definitely look into it and see what is required to make the marriage legal.

Wow..thank you so much everyone. This is all very helpful. I'm going to read through it all, digest it and see if I have any further questions.

I would start getting the initial petition package together. First filling out the I-130 and both you and your future husband's G-325A. You will need his signature on his G-325A.

Other things that you will need....

$420 check made out to US Department of Homeland Security

G-1145 e-Notification

I-130 Petition for Alien Relative (mentioned above)

Proof of your citizenship....copy of birth certificate or passport

Your G-325A and passport style photo of you (mentioned above)

Spouse's G-325A and passport style photo of spouse (mentioned above)

Certificate/Statement of Translator if needed

Copy of Marriage Certificate and Translation if needed

Other proof of bona fide relationship...Western Union money transfers, common credit card, affidavits of third parties having personal knowledge of bona fide relationship, holiday cards, flight itineraries, passport stamps, hotel receipts, receipts/pics of gifts, pictures of you and your spouse together and with each others' families, brief summary of relationship and ongoing relationship.

Two hole punch the package at the top. Then use an ACCO binder to put the whole package together. I included a cover sheet explaining everything that was in the package as well as the number of pages.

Wow! Thank you so much!!! Very helpful!

Hello, I was advised to ask here about Nigerian Wedding laws and requirements being that I'm an American Citizen. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!