A social media tempest has been sparked by a recent incident in which a Nigerian woman reportedly spent millions on application and processing expenses only to have her U.S. visa denied.

Given the significant sums of money typically spent just to have the application denied, Nigerians have called for a refund scheme for unsuccessful visa applicants in response to the occurrence.

In a series of statements after the denial, the woman, who had invested a great deal of money and effort in getting ready for her visa interview, voiced her dismay.

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“I’m depressed. I could have purchased a car with my money. “I’m depressed,” she said, adding that she was determined to try again, saying, “I’ll go to that Yankee.”

She described how, in her presence, more than 80 other applicants had their visas denied.

She anticipated that only five of the approximately 300 individuals who attended the interview session would probably be approved.

Many Nigerians responded favourably to the news on social media, sharing their personal stories of visa denial and endorsing the demand for a compensation or refund scheme.

Even if they refuse to give a refund, at least some sort of compensation would be greatly appreciated, according to a comment made by user @81_flacos. Because you’re aware of the amount you’ll spend? When you are ultimately rejected, it seems like a waste of money.

The impact of the high refusal rates was also highlighted by @Reggy1960, who wrote, “A Nigerian woman laments that her US VISA was denied after she spent millions of naira.” Many Nigerians experience this every year; a reimbursement process has to be in place.

The procedure was criticised by another user, @MayJaYBaE, who called it a “scam” and claimed that applicants from Africa and other underdeveloped nations were being taken advantage of through visa applications.

@Slevin767025080 contributed to the discussion by sharing his own anxious experience at the U.S. embassy in Abuja, where he saw many applicants rejected in quick succession. In less than 30 seconds, these individuals were refusing people. Witness Nigerians sobbing, pleading, and explaining. Without asking any serious questions, I got my. However, I felt sorry for myself because I’m Nigerian. These people don’t think highly of us.

Nigerians are calling for reforms and financial safeguards to lessen the financial effect of rejected applications, as the episode has sparked broader conversations on social media.