By Queen Madaki | The Bureau News
ABUJA — Nigeria News Today: Securing a U.S. visa can be complex, but having the right sponsorship can make all the difference. A sponsor provides legal and financial backing to prove you have genuine reasons and adequate support to enter the United States.
In simple terms, a sponsor in the U.S.—whether an employer, family member, or educational institution—stands behind your visa application, strengthening your case and simplifying the process.
1. Family-Based Sponsorship
If you have close relatives in the U.S., they can legally sponsor your immigration. U.S. citizens can petition for spouses, parents, children, and siblings, while green card holders can sponsor spouses and unmarried children.
The process begins with Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative), followed by financial proof via Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support).
2. Diversity Visa Lottery
The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery offers a pathway to U.S. permanent residence for eligible countries, including Nigeria. The process is free, and winners can apply for immigrant visas leading to green cards.
Apply only via the official website between October and November each year, and beware of fraudulent platforms promising guaranteed entry.
3. Scholarships and Exchange Programs
Fully funded scholarships and academic exchange programs such as Fulbright or Hubert Humphrey Fellowship provide visa sponsorships, tuition coverage, and stipends. These often lead to U.S. experience and potential work sponsorships post-study.
4. Employer Sponsorship
The H-1B visa is the most common for professionals. A U.S. employer files Form I-129 and a Labor Condition Application to bring foreign talent legally into the U.S.
Other routes include the O-1 visa for extraordinary ability and the L-1 visa for intracompany transfers. Major multinational companies often offer these sponsorships.
5. Study Route through OPT
Studying in the U.S. under an F-1 student visa provides access to Optional Practical Training (OPT), allowing up to 12 months of legal work—or 36 months for STEM graduates. This period helps graduates secure long-term employer sponsorships.
6. Intracompany Transfer
If you work for a multinational in Nigeria, the L-1 visa enables transfer to its U.S. branch. This route applies to executives and specialists with at least one year of experience in the last three years.
This option bypasses the H-1B lottery and provides a smoother relocation experience within the same organization.
For detailed immigration updates, visit Nigeria News Today on The Bureau News.