If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting the UK whether for vacation, school, work, or family, then one of the first things you need to understand is the visa process.
It can feel overwhelming at first, especially if it’s your first time applying. But don’t worry. We’ll walk you through it step by step.
Let’s start with the basics.
What’s a Visa Anyway?
A visa is an official document that gives you permission to enter, stay in, or leave a country for a specific purpose and period of time. Think of it like an access card to a wedding reception, without it, you won’t be allowed in.
Countries issue visas to regulate who enters and stay within their borders. This helps them manage immigration, ensure security, and make sure people coming in are doing so for valid reasons—like tourism, education, or work.
For the UK, a visa is required for most non-citizens. As a Nigerian, You need to apply for a visa, get it approved, and only then can you legally enter the country. Okay, so a visa is basically your ‘entry ticket’ but you may be asking, do I even need one just to visit the UK? Let’s talk about that next.
Do I Really Need a Visa to Visit the UK?
Yes. If you’re a Nigerian passport holder, you definitely need a visa to visit the UK, no matter the reason. Unlike citizens of some countries who can travel to the UK without a visa (called visa-exempt countries), Nigeria is not one of them. So, even if you just want to attend a conference, visit your cousin, or spend your honeymoon in London, you’ll need a UK visa first.
If you try to travel without one, you’ll most likely be denied entry when you land in the UK. And that could mean losing your ticket money, time, and your travel plans.
Types Of UK Visa
There are several types of UK visas, and the one you choose depends on your reason for travelling there. Here are the most common ones for Nigerian applicants:
1.Visitor Visa
A Visitor Visa allows individuals to enter the UK for either tourism, visiting family and friends, business meetings, or short-term courses. Visitors can explore the UK’s culture, landmarks, and attractions or attend conferences and events. However, you are not permitted to work or study in the UK with this visa. UK Visitor visa duration are 6 months, 2 years, 5yrs and 10yrs, all depending on the one you apply for.
2. Student Visa
A Student Visa allows international students to study in the UK for a specified period. This visa is suitable for students who have been accepted onto a course at a UK university. Students can pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies, and some courses may lead to work opportunities in the UK after graduation.
3. Work Visa (Skilled Worker Visa)
A Work Visa, also known as a Skilled Worker Visa, allows individuals to work in the UK for a specific employer. This visa is for skilled workers who have a job offer in the UK and meet specific eligibility criteria. Workers can apply for this visa if they have a job offer in a specific occupation and meet the required skill level and salary threshold.
4. Family Visa
A Family Visa allows family members of UK citizens or residents to join them in the UK. This visa is for spouses, partners, children, parents, or other dependent relatives. Family members can apply for this visa if they meet specific eligibility criteria and can demonstrate that they will be supported financially and accommodated in the UK.
Other types of visa includes:
- Transit Visa: If you’re passing through the UK to another country.
- Graduate Visa: For students who have finished their UK degree and want to stay and work.
- Business Visa: For attending business meetings, conferences, or deals.
You may be thinking so, how do I start the process—and where do I even go? Let’s see that in the next section.
UK Visa application
Once you start your UK visa application online at the official UK Government Visa website, you’ll eventually be required to submit your fingerprints, photo (biometrics), and documents in person.This is done through a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
These centres are not embassies and they don’t make decisions on your visa. They only collect your information and send it to UK immigration officers who will review your case. Until recently, the company handling this in Nigeria was TLScontact.
But from March 31, 2025, all UK visa application services in Nigeria are now managed by VFS Global.
VFS Global offices in Nigeria
1. Lagos (Ikeja)Address: Manor House, Plot 110, Admiral Ayinla Way, Opposite Treasure Garden Estate, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos.
2. Abuja Address: Churchgate Plaza, 2nd Floor, Churchgate Towers, Constitution Avenue, Central Business District, Abuja.
3. Port Harcourt (optional location, not always available for UK visas) Check the portal for updates.VFS Global Website: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/nga/en/g
On this website, you can:
- Book your biometric appointment
- Choose value-added services (like premium lounges, courier return of passport, etc.)
- Track your visa application status
Note: You cannot walk into a VFS centre without an appointment. You must book online first, this is usually after submitting your application on the UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) portal.
In the next post, we would be covering these five key areas:
How to start your UK visa application online.
The documents you’ll need
The application fee and how long it takes to get a decision.
Common mistakes first-time applicants should avoid
FAQs
1. How long does a UK visa take to process in Nigeria?
About 15 working days. Priority (5 days) and Super Priority (24 hours) options are available for a fee.
2. Can I fast-track my visa application?Yes, through Priority or Super Priority services via VFS Global, if available.
3. How do I book an appointment with VFS Global?
Create an account on VFS Global Nigeria, fill your application, pay, and pick a date.
4. What documents do I need?
Passport, completed form, bank statements, accommodation details, and supporting docs based on your visa type.
5. Do I need a TB test?
Yes—if you are staying over 6 months, it’s mandatory. Use approved clinics only.
6. Can I apply without a sponsor?
Yes—just show proof of funds. If sponsored, include the sponsor’s documents.
7. When should I apply?
Up to 3 months before your trip. Apply early to avoid delays.
8. What changed with TLScontact?
VFS Global now handles UK visa applications in Nigeria (since March 31, 2025). Use their portal to book.