The United Kingdom will begin issuing electronic visas (e-Visas) to Nigerian applicants from February 25, replacing the traditional visa sticker with a fully digital immigration status.
The new system is being introduced by UK Visas and Immigration as part of the UK’s shift toward a paperless border process. Under the arrangement, approved applicants will receive their visa status electronically, linked directly to their passport and online immigration record.
Officials say the move is aimed at simplifying verification, reducing processing risks and speeding up travel clearance.
An e-Visa serves as a digital record of permission to enter or stay in the UK and can be presented online to airlines, employers, schools and border authorities when required.
How Nigerians Can Apply — Step by Step
Applicants are required to complete the process online before attending a biometric capture appointment.
First, travelers must select the correct visa category — such as visitor, student, work or family visa — based on their purpose of travel.
Next, they are to complete the online application form through the official UK government visa portal by creating an account and entering their personal and passport details.
Supporting documents — including passport data page, bank statements, invitation or admission letters, and travel plans — must then be uploaded in clear scanned copies.
Applicants will then pay the required visa fee online and book a biometric appointment at an approved visa application centre in Nigeria, where fingerprints and photographs will be captured.
After submission, applications can be tracked online. Once approved, the applicant receives an email confirmation and access to their e-Visa record. No physical visa label will be placed in the passport.
Before travelling, visa holders are expected to log into their account to view their status or generate a share code if requested for verification.
Travel advisers say applicants should use only official government websites and apply early to avoid delays. The digital system is expected to gradually cover more visa categories in the UK’s ongoing immigration reforms.
