In a statement issued in Abuja, the UK’s immigration authorities confirmed that all newly approved Visit visas for Nigerians will be granted as eVisas rather than passport vignettes. Travellers will instead access proof of their immigration status through a secure online account.
The change affects only the visa format, not the application process, as applicants will still complete the standard online form, attend a Visa Application Centre to submit biometric data, and meet the existing eligibility criteria. The key difference is that successful applicants will no longer have a visa sticker affixed to their passport.
The British Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, Gill Lever, said the reform is designed to simplify travel while enhancing security.
“We are committed to making it easier for Nigerians to travel to the UK. This shift to digital visas streamlines a key part of the process, strengthens security, and reduces reliance on paper documentation,” she said.
Application Process Unchanged Despite Digital Shift
UK officials stressed that Nigerians who already hold valid visa stickers will not be required to switch immediately. Existing visas will remain valid until their stated expiry dates.
According to UK immigration authorities, the eVisa model is expected to shorten processing times because passports will no longer need to be retained for visa endorsement. Travellers will be able to view and share their immigration status online at any time, a feature that officials say offers greater flexibility for business visitors, students, and frequent travellers.
Authorities also pointed to security gains. Unlike physical stickers, digital records cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with, and can be verified in real time by border officials and other authorised bodies.
Once approved, applicants must create a free UK Visas and Immigration account to access and manage their eVisa details.
The move places Nigerian travellers among the first cohort to fully transition to digital visa issuance, underscoring Britain’s broader ambition to modernise border management while maintaining strong travel and trade links with Africa’s largest economy.
