The Government of the United Kingdom, will launch digital eVisas for most Nigerian nationals applying for study or work visas from 15 July 2025. This marks a significant step in the UK’s transition to a fully digital immigration system.
Under the new system, successful applicants will receive a secure online eVisa instead of a physical visa sticker in their passport. Applicants will still need to attend a Visa Application Centre to provide biometric information, but if a vignette is not required, they can retain their passport the same day.
A statement issued by the British High Commission in Abuja, on Wednesday, indicated that the change applies only to study and work visa applications submitted on or after 15 July. Dependants (e.g. spouses or children) and visitor visa applicants will continue to receive a visa vignette for now.
Once a decision is made on their visa application, applicants will receive an email from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) with the outcome and instructions to create a UKVI account, to access their eVisa.
Chargé d’Affaires, Gill Lever OBE, British High Commission in Abuja said:“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.
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.
“However, if you’re applying as a dependant, like a spouse or child, of someone who is studying or working in the UK or if you are applying for a visitor visa, you’ll still receive a visa vignette sticker in your passport for the time being.”
eVisas have already replaced Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) for individuals granted leave for over six months. Customers with a UKVI account can use the View and Prove service to securely share their immigration status with third parties, such as employers or landlords (in England).
