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The United States Mission in Nigeria has dissociated itself from a press release promising a new type of work visa for Nigerians aged 40 to 55.
A copy of the press release claiming to be from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services says those eligible for the work visa are health workers, engineers, marine workers, accountants among others.
The press release read in part: “President Joe Biden, the 46 U.S President has signed an Executive Order that interested citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who measure in some special professions are eligible for American Work E-Visa and Residence Permit. This was communicated to the Nigeria US Department of immigration.
“The terms of the Executive Order allows 25,000 citizens of the Republic of Nigeria between the age of 40 to 55 whose area of expertise are among the following: Health workers, engineers, marine workers, accountants…”
It added that “applicants and children who have been vaccinated must make a pre-visa vaccination deposit of $150 per person which is required as a condition for visa approval.”
Applicants are also required to make a deposit of $250 for English proficiency test.
Reacting to the press release, the US Mission described it as a scam, warning people not to fall victim to it.
“Fraud Alert! Scammers and fraudsters are circulating a fake “press release” claiming to offer a new type of work visa to Nigerian citizens aged 40-55. It’s the same old scam, but in fresh packaging – don’t become a victim!” the US Mission tweeted on Thursday.