By Adenike Lawal
In a move toward digital immigration processing, the United Kingdom will begin issuing electronic visas (eVisas), to Nigerian nationals applying for work and study permits starting July 15, 2025.
The British High Commission in Abuja announced the development on Wednesday, noting that the new policy applies to applications submitted on or after the rollout date.
Applications lodged before July 15 will still follow the existing procedure, which involves submitting passports at Visa Application Centres (VACs), and receiving physical visa stickers (vignettes).
Under the new system, successful applicants will receive email notifications from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), along with instructions to create a UKVI account through which they can access their digital visa record. While the eVisa eliminates the need for physical stickers, biometric enrollment at VACs remains a mandatory part of the process.
“This marks a major step forward in how the UK manages immigration,” the High Commission stated. “eVisas will serve as digital proof of immigration status and support a more secure, streamlined system.”
The shift currently affects only work and study visa categories. Visitor visa applicants will continue to receive physical vignettes for now.
The UK joins a growing list of countries adopting digital visa systems aimed at enhancing efficiency, security, and user convenience.
