The United Kingdom will begin issuing electronic visas, known as e-visas, to most Nigerian applicants seeking study and work permits starting July 15, 2025.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the UK government said
successful applicants will no longer receive a physical visa vignette sticker
in their passports.
Instead, they will be granted a secure online record of
their immigration status, which can be accessed and shared digitally.
Gill Lever, chargé d’affaires at the British High Commission
in Abuja, described the rollout of e-visas as a significant milestone in the
UK’s broader effort to digitise its immigration system.
“This will make the process more secure, more efficient, and
more convenient for students, professionals, and families,” Lever added.
“However, if you’re applying as a dependant, like a spouse
or child, of someone who is studying or working in the UK or if you are
applying for a visitor visa, you’ll still receive a visa vignette sticker in
your passport for the time being.”
The shift to e-bisas will apply to all eligible Nigerian
applications submitted on or after July 15.
According to the UK government, applicants will still need
to visit a visa application centre (VAC) to provide biometric data, such as
fingerprints and a photograph.
However, those covered under the e-visa rollout will be
allowed to keep their passports after the appointment.
Once a visa decision is made, successful applicants will
receive an email with instructions to create a UK visas and immigration (UKVI)
account.
This account will serve as the gateway to their e-visa,
allowing them to view and share their immigration status securely with third
parties such as landlords, employers, and schools.
Wednesday’s announcement is the latest in a series of reforms
aimed at streamlining the UK’s immigration system.
The government had previously phased out biometric residence
permits (BRPs) in favour of e-visas for individuals granted leave for more than
six months.
To complete the application process, the government advised
applicants to attend a VAC to submit passport and biometric data; and follow
visa outcome instructions, including creating a UKVI account if needed and
linking it to their current passport.
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