UK introduces evisas for Nigerian visit applicants

The British High Commission has announced that Nigerian nationals applying for a UK Visit visa will begin receiving electronic visas instead of physical vignette stickers from 25 February 2026.

The development is part of the United Kingdom’s ongoing transition to a fully digital border system being implemented by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

In a statement, the Commission explained that while the format of the visa will change, the application process and eligibility requirements remain the same. Applicants will still submit their forms, attend a Visa Application Centre to enrol their biometrics and meet all existing criteria. However, successful applicants will no longer receive a sticker in their passport but a secure digital record of their immigration status, accessible through a UKVI online account.

The Commission clarified that Nigerians who currently hold valid vignette stickers do not need to take any action, as their visas will remain valid until expiry or replacement is required.

According to the statement, the introduction of eVisas is expected to speed up the return of passports and allow travellers to manage their immigration status online at any time. It added that the digital format offers enhanced security, as electronic visas cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with.

Welcoming the transition, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, Gill Lever, said the move would make travel to the UK easier and more secure for Nigerians.

“We are committed to making it easier for Nigerians to travel to the UK. This move to digital visas will streamline a key part of the visa process, making it more secure while reducing dependence on paper documents. We look forward to continuing to welcome Nigerian visitors, students and workers to the UK,” she said.

The Commission advised that once a visa application is approved, applicants will need to create a free UKVI account to access their eVisa.