Nigerians Applying for UK Study or Work Visas to Get eVisas Starting July 15

The British High Commission in Abuja has announced that Nigerians applying for UK study or work visas will now receive digital eVisas instead of physical visa stickers.

The new system takes effect on 15 July 2025. Any application submitted on or after this date will be processed under the eVisa arrangement.

Applications submitted before 15 July will still follow the current process and receive a physical vignette in the passport.

Successful applicants will be given an eVisa, which is a secure online record of immigration status. The British High Commission says this change is part of the UK’s move towards a fully digital immigration system that is faster, safer and more convenient for students and professionals.

Applicants must still visit a Visa Application Centre to submit biometric information. Once a decision is made, they will receive an email from UK Visas and Immigration with instructions to create a UKVI account to access and manage their eVisa online.

Visitor visa applicants and dependants such as spouses or children of students and workers will continue to receive visa stickers for now.

The UK has already replaced Biometric Residence Permits with eVisas for people granted permission to stay for more than six months. Holders can use the “View and Prove” service to share their status with employers or landlords in England.

To get an eVisa, Nigerians must:

• Apply online through gov.uk

• Attend a Visa Application Centre for biometrics

• Keep their passport if no vignette is needed

• Create and link a UKVI account after receiving their decision letter

Nigeria remains one of the UK’s biggest sources of international students and skilled workers. The new digital system is expected to make the visa process easier for many Nigerians planning to relocate for study or work.