UK to Begin eVisa Process for Nigerian Study and Work Visas in July 2025
Starting July 15, 2025, Nigerians applying for UK study or work visas will begin receiving digital eVisas instead of the traditional visa sticker (vignette) placed inside their passports. The announcement came from the British High Commission (BHC) in Abuja on Wednesday, as part of the UK’s plan to move toward a fully digital immigration system.
According to the BHC, this new system will apply only to applications submitted on or after July 15, 2025. Anyone who applies before that date will still need to follow the old process, which includes submitting their passport at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) and receiving a physical sticker.
“This change marks a major step in the UK Government’s transition to a modern, digital immigration system,” the statement from the BHC said.
Under this new system, successful applicants will be issued a secure online record, known as an eVisa, that shows their immigration status. However, biometric information (fingerprints and photos) must still be submitted at the VAC.
Once a visa decision is made, applicants will receive an email from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) with the outcome and instructions to set up a UKVI account. This account is necessary to access and manage the eVisa.
“Despite the removal of the vignette, biometric information must still be submitted at the Visa Application Centre,” the UK’s statement added.
Gill Atkinson, the Chargé d’Affaires at the British High Commission, said the move would make travelling to the UK faster, easier, and more secure for Nigerians. She added that it’s also part of the UK’s broader shift to a fully digital immigration system.
However, not all visa types are included in the eVisa system yet. Those applying for visitor visas or as dependants (such as spouses or children of main applicants) will still receive the traditional visa sticker in their passport, at least for now.
eVisas have already replaced Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) for people staying in the UK for more than six months. People with a UKVI account can use the “View and Prove” service to share their immigration status with employers, landlords, or schools in England.
Key Steps for Getting a UK eVisa:
- Apply online through the UK government website: www.gov.uk
- Visit a Visa Application Centre to give your fingerprints and photo
- Keep your passport (no need to leave it behind if no vignette is required)
- Check your email for a decision and instructions
- Create and link your UKVI account to access your eVisa
The UK government says this update is part of making the immigration system more convenient and user-friendly while also increasing security and efficiency.
