Commencing on July 15, 2025, the United Kingdom will start providing electronic visas (e-visas) to the majority of Nigerian applicants pursuing study and work permits.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the UK government announced that successful candidates will no longer obtain a physical visa vignette sticker in their passports.
Instead, they will receive 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, referred to the introduction of e-visas as a notable milestone in the UK’s wider initiative to digitize its immigration system.
“This will enhance the process, making it more secure, efficient, and convenient for students, professionals, and families,” Lever remarked.
“However, if you’re applying as a dependant, such as a spouse or child of someone studying or working in the UK, or if you are requesting a visitor visa, you will still receive a visa vignette sticker in your passport for the moment.”
The transition to e-visas will pertain to all eligible Nigerian applications submitted on or after July 15.
According to the UK government, candidates will still be required to visit a visa application centre (VAC) to provide biometric data including fingerprints and a photograph.
Nevertheless, those encompassed under the e-visa rollout will be permitted to retain their passports after the appointment.
Upon a visa decision being made, successful applicants will get an email with guidance to establish a UK visas and immigration (UKVI) account. This account will act as the portal to their e-visa, enabling them to securely view and share their immigration status with third parties such as landlords, employers, and educational institutions.
Wednesday’s declaration is the latest in a series of reforms aimed at optimizing the UK’s immigration system.
The government had previously phased out biometric residence permits (BRPs) in favor of e-visas for individuals granted leave exceeding six months.
To finalize the application process, the government recommended applicants attend a VAC to submit passport and biometric data, and follow visa outcome instructions, which may include creating a UKVI account and linking it to their current passport.