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How to Apply for a Nigeria Visa from the UK: 2026 Digital Guide
Are you planning a holiday to Nigeria and hold either a United Kingdom passport or residence permit? The Nigerian government has transitioned to a digital application system part of the UK Visas and Immigration UKVI protocols as of early 2026.
Whether your visa will be for tourism, business, or family visiting purposes, this guide will outline the requirements and cost for 2026 and provide a step-by-step process to collect your visa in London.
Before you apply for your visa, book your travel: Check Flights to Nigeria on good fights
Do You Need a Visa for Nigeria from the UK?
Yes, holders of British passports and foreign nationals residing in the UK need a visa to enter Nigeria.
A common misconception goes that UK residents are granted visas on arrival. Under the current process, the standard route requires pre-approval. But there are two main ways for residents in the UK:
- The Standard Paper Visa: Applied for via the Nigerian High Commission.
- The E-Visa: Available for short tourist visits usually up to 30 days via the official Nigeria Immigration Service portal
Important Update for 2026: Nigeria employs e-Visas, while the UK, at the same time, has also elevated its own entry system to digital for Nigerians. Be sure to confirm the entry requirements for the country you’re entering.
Step-by-Step Application Process For London
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type
Before applying, identify the correct category based on your travel purpose :
- Tourist / Visitors Visa: For holidays, sightseeing, or visiting friends.
- Business Visa: For meetings, conferences, or short-term contracts.
- Transit Visa: For passing through Nigeria to another destination.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Application processing is done via the Nigeria Immigration Service portal or OIS (Online Immigration System). You must complete Form IMM22.
Key information required:
- Scanned copy of your UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or UK visa sticker.
- Passport photo (white background).
- Travel itinerary (flight booking).
- Proof of accommodation in Nigeria.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee
The fees differ based on the nationality and type of visa. For the standard tourist visa for UK passport holders, this is around (approx. £130 – £160 GBP). Payments are collected online at the time of application submission.
Step 4: Submit Your Passport
Unlike the UK, having recently transitioned to an eVisa facility for Nigerians, in most cases, Nigeria still requires you to have a physical visa sticker with respect to UK residents. The other is visiting the Nigerian High Commission in London.
Address:
- Nigeria High Commission, 9 Northumberland Avenue, London, WC2N 5BX
Office Hours:
- Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (closed weekends and Nigerian/UK public holidays).
You must bring:
- Your printed online application form.
- Your original passport (must have at least 6 months validity).
- Two passport-sized photographs.
- The payment receipt.
Step 5: Processing & Collection
It takes 5 to 10 working days as standard processing time. In 2026 no general priority service for Nigerian visas is offered in the UK, so plan your trip at least 3 weeks ahead.
Required Documents Checklist
To avoid rejection, ensure you have the following documents prepared :
For UK Residents:
- Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages.
- UK Residence Proof: A valid UK visa or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended return date.
- Photographs: 2 recent passport-sized color photos.
- Proof of Funds: Bank statements from your UK bank account (last 3-6 months) showing you can support yourself.
- Accommodation: Hotel booking or a letter from your host in Nigeria.
- Travel Itinerary: Return flight booking confirmation.
- Employment Letter: A letter from your UK employer confirming your leave of absence (if employed).
Cost Breakdown
Item | Cost (Estimated) |
Visa Application Fee | $160 – $200 (~£130) |
High Commission Service Fee | £20 – £40 (if applicable) |
Total Estimated Cost | ~£150 – £170 GBP |
Note: Fees are subject to currency fluctuations and policy changes. Always check the official website before paying.
Important Updates for UK Travelers
The UK / Nigeria Digital Switch
There is a lot of news regarding digital visas. However, please distinguish between the two:
- For Nigerians going to the UK: As of Feb 2026, the UK has abolished physical stickers for Nigerians. They use eVisas .
- For UK going to Nigeria: Nigeria still largely uses physical stickers in passports for UK residents, though an e-Visa option exists for tourism.
Health Requirements
- Yellow Fever: The Nigerian government requires proof of Yellow Fever vaccination (The Yellow Card) for entry. You must get this at least 10 days before travel.
- COVID-19: As of 2026, no PCR or vaccination proof is generally required for entry, but check for updates.
Planning More African Travel?
Once you have your Nigeria visa sorted, explore more destinations across the continent:
Flights to Africa – Compare & Book on good fights
From Kenya to South Africa, Ghana to Egypt — find the best flight deals after securing your visa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get a Nigeria visa on arrival at Lagos Airport if I am a UK citizen?
No, While Nigeria offers a “Visa on Arrival,” it is primarily for business travelers with an approval letter obtained BEFORE departure. Standard tourists must secure a visa from the High Commission in London prior to travel .
How long does it take to get a Nigerian visa in London?
It takes approximately 5 to 10 working days from the date of submission at the High Commission. You should apply at least 2-3 weeks before your flight.
Is the Nigerian High Commission in London open?
Yes, the High Commission is located at 9 Northumberland Avenue, open Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM. They are closed on UK public holidays.
Do I need a TB test to apply for a Nigerian visa from the UK?
No. TB tests are required for applicants applying for a UK visa from Nigeria, not the other way around .