United Kingdom visa application process goes fully digital for Nigerians.
The United Kingdom will begin issuing electronic visas, known as eVisas, to Nigerian travellers from February 25, 2026, replacing the physical visa stickers traditionally placed in passports.
The announcement was made on Monday in a statement by the British High Commission in Abuja.
According to the statement, from the start date, all Nigerian nationals applying for a UK Visit Visa will receive their visa digitally rather than as a vignette or sticker in their passport.
“From 25 February 2026, all Nigerian nationals applying for a UK Visit visa will receive an eVisa, rather than a vignette (sticker) in their passports,” the statement said.
Under the new system, successful applicants will be able to access their visa electronically through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) online account. This marks a major shift toward a fully digital visa process.
The commission clarified that the application process itself remains the same. Nigerians will still apply online, visit a Visa Application Centre to submit biometric information, and meet all existing eligibility requirements.
The only change is how the visa is issued. Instead of a physical sticker, applicants will receive a secure digital record of their immigration status.
The commission also noted that Nigerians who already have valid physical visa stickers do not need to take any action. Their visas will remain valid until they expire or require replacement.
Explaining the benefits of the change, the commission said the new system would make travel easier and more secure for Nigerians.
“The move to eVisas brings a number of benefits for Nigerian travellers. Passports will be returned more quickly, and travellers can manage their immigration status online at any time, from any location,” the statement said.
It added that eVisas offer stronger security because they cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with.
Also commenting on the development, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, Gill Lever, said the move would simplify travel 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,” she said.
She added that the UK looks forward to continuing to welcome Nigerian visitors, students, and workers.
According to the statement, once a visa application is approved, applicants will be required to create a UKVI account at no cost in order to access their eVisa.
