The British High Commission in Abuja has announced a significant change in the United Kingdom’s immigration process for Nigerians applying for study and work visas. Beginning 15 July 2025, most applicants in these categories will no longer receive traditional visa stickers in their passports. Instead, they will be issued digital eVisas, marking a major step in the UK’s transition to a fully digital immigration system.
What Is Changing?
As of the effective date, Nigerians who submit study or work visa applications will receive an eVisa—a secure online record of their immigration status—rather than a physical vignette (visa sticker) in their passport. This digital shift aims to make the visa process more secure, efficient, and convenient for applicants.
However, the new policy only applies to applications submitted on or after 15 July 2025. Anyone applying before that date will continue to follow the current process, which includes submitting their passport at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) and receiving a physical visa sticker.
Biometric Data Still Required
Despite the shift to eVisas, applicants will still need to attend a Visa Application Centre to submit their biometric information. If a vignette is not required, they will be allowed to take their passport home the same day.
Once a visa decision has been made, successful applicants will receive an email from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) containing the outcome and instructions for setting up a UKVI account, which will allow them to access and manage their eVisa.
A Word from the British High Commission
Speaking on the change, Gill Atkinson, Chargé d’Affaires at the 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 big step toward a fully digital UK immigration system—more secure, more efficient, and more convenient for students, professionals, and families.”
She also clarified that not all applicants will be affected immediately. For example, those applying as dependants—such as spouses or children of primary visa holders—or those applying for visitor visas will still receive the traditional visa vignette for the time being.
eVisas Already in Use for Longer Stays
This digital system is not entirely new. eVisas have already replaced Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) for individuals granted permission to stay in the UK for more than six months. Those with a UKVI account can use the “View and Prove” service to securely share their immigration status with employers, landlords, and other authorised third parties.
Steps to Get Your UK eVisa
If you’re applying for a UK study or work visa from 15 July 2025 onward, here’s what you need to do:
- Apply online through the official UK government website (gov.uk).
- Attend a Visa Application Centre to provide your biometric data.
- Take your passport home the same day, if a vignette is not required.
- Follow the instructions in your decision email to set up and link your UKVI account for eVisa access.
This update signifies the UK government’s commitment to creating a streamlined, tech-driven immigration system—one that balances security, accessibility, and global mobility. For Nigerians looking to study or work in the UK, the new eVisa process promises a more convenient and faster application experience.
If you’re planning to apply for a UK visa soon, keep this date—15 July 2025—in mind, and be prepared for a new, digital journey.
