NIGERIA: UK To Begin Issuing Digital Visas To Nigerians From July 15

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

The British High Commission in Abuja has announced a major shift in the United Kingdom’s visa processing system for Nigerians applying for study and work permits.

Beginning July 15, 2025, most applicants in these categories will start receiving digital visas (eVisas) instead of traditional visa stickers in their passports.

The change, according to a statement released by the High Commission on Wednesday, is part of the UK government’s transition to a fully digital immigration system aimed at enhancing efficiency and security.

The statement reads: “From 15 July 2025, most individuals applying to enter the UK on study or work-related visas will no longer receive a physical visa sticker (vignette) in their passport. Instead, successful applicants will be issued an eVisa, a secure, online record of their immigration status.”

The statement also noted that the new policy will only apply to applications submitted on or after July 15. Those who submit applications before that date will continue with the current procedure, which includes submitting their passports at Visa Application Centres and receiving physical visa stickers.

It was further stated that applicants who are dependents of students or workers, as well as those applying for visitor visas, will also continue to receive visa vignettes for the time being.

Despite the move to digital visas, all applicants must still attend a Visa Application Centre to provide biometric information, including fingerprints and photographs.

The statement further stated: “Once a decision is made, successful applicants will receive an email from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) with instructions to create a UKVI account. This account will allow them to access and manage their eVisa and share their immigration status with employers, landlords, or universities using the UK government’s “View and Prove” service.”

Speaking on the development, the Chargé d’Affaires at the British High Commission in Abuja, Gill Atkinson OBE, said the change is aimed at simplifying the travel process for Nigerians.

“We’re making it easier and faster for Nigerians to travel to the UK. From 15 July 2025, most people applying for study or work visas will get a digital eVisa instead of a visa sticker in their passport,” she said.

She further noted: “This is a further big step to a fully digital UK immigration system, making the process more secure, more efficient, and more convenient for students, professionals, and families.”

The High Commission added that digital visas have already replaced Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) for individuals granted stay in the UK for more than six months.

To obtain an eVisa, applicants must: apply online via gov.uk, visit a Visa Application Centre to submit biometrics, keep their passport if a vignette is not required and follow UKVI instructions to set up and link a UKVI account.