Nigeria Travel Requirements for UK Citizens in 2026
Let’s turn your dream trip into a real adventure.
What UK Citizens Need to Enter Nigeria in 2026
Planning your trip to Nigeria? Be sure to fulfill all entry requirements before booking your flight from London to Lagos. In 2026-27, Nigeria has a listing of stringent visa, health and documentation requirements for UK passport holders. Missing any of these could lead to being turned away at the boarding gate in London or denied entry on arrival in Lagos.
1. Nigeria eVisa — Required for All UK Citizens
A valid Nigeria eVisa is the most important requirement among all. Visa-on-Arrival is no longer offered by Nigeria since May 2025. Every UK citizen will need to apply and then gain prior approval online before traveling.
Requirement | Details |
Visa Type | Short Visit eVisa (Tourism / Social Visit) |
Apply At | |
Cost | £160 (approx £127) |
Processing Time | 24–72 hours after correct submission |
Maximum Stay | Up to 30 days (non-extendable) |
Entries | Single entry per application |
Approval Rate (UK) | ~96% |
Read our complete guide for steps on how to apply and what documents and fees are needed: How to Get a Nigeria Tourist Visa from UK.
2. Passport Requirements
Your UK passport should be:
- Traced for at least 6 months beyond your expected date of entering Nigeria.
- Minimum 2 blank visa pages for the entry stamp.
- Not reported lost or stolen (even if you find it later, entry will be denied).
- The name should be exactly the same as in your eVisa application.
3. Health & Vaccination Requirements
Yellow Fever Certificate
A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (what is also known as the Yellow Card or International Certificate of Vaccination) is a legal requirement for visitors into Nigeria. This means it can be for all travelers, regardless of age, with two exceptions:
- 8 months and younger, Exempt
- Those aged 61 or older are exempt.
To obtain the certificate, you should be vaccinated at least 10 days before travel. Book at your GP or an accredited UK travel clinic. Bring the original Yellow Card; Nigerian immigration will not accept photocopies or digital versions.
Recommended Health Precautions for Nigeria |
Anti-malaria medication — consult your GP before travel (prescription required) |
Hepatitis A and B vaccinations — recommended by NHS and TravelHealthPro |
Typhoid vaccine — recommended for travel to Nigeria |
Insect repellent with DEET — essential protection against mosquitoes |
Travel insurance with medical cover — strongly recommended |
4. Nigeria Landing Card — Mandatory Digital Form
All inbound international passengers traveling to Nigeria (excluding Nigerian nationals) must fill the Nigeria Landing Card online before boarding. This is different from the eVisa requirement.
- Complete at: lecard.immigration.gov.ng
- It must be submitted within 72 hours before your departure.
- It is electronically linked to your passport.
- The printed copy is also useful as a backup; border officers may ask you to show it.
You must also fill out a Nigeria Health Declaration Form online ahead of your arrival. This is part of Nigeria’s public health screening strategy, which also applies to passengers in transit.
5. Supporting Documents to Carry
On arrival, Nigerian immigration officers may ask for any of the following:
- Return or onward flight ticket: A confirmed booking (not just a quote)
- Proof of accommodation: hotel booking OR full address of host in Lagos
- Letter of invitation: If you will be staying with relatives or friends in Nigeria
- Evidence of funds: Bank statements with a minimum balance of £80/day for the duration of stay
- Documents proving travel insurance: Not a requirement but highly encouraged
6. Customs Rules What You Cannot Bring into Nigeria
Nigeria has strict import restrictions. You cannot bring the following items into the country:
- Mineral water & beer, soft drinks, and sparkling wine
- Fruits & vegetables, cereals, and eggs
- Textiles, jewelry, or precious metals.
- Back to List of Offenses Illegal drugs and firearms.
At customs, upon arrival, you must declare any cash amounts exceeding £10,000 Pound or goods with a net worth above £500.
Related Guides — Read Next |
Once you have your requirements sorted, you are ready to plan your journey. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Flying from London to Lagos |
Airlines, baggage, departure tips, arrival process at MMIA, and transport into Lagos city. |
How to Get a Nigeria Tourist Visa from UK |
Full eVisa application walkthrough, required documents, fees, and common mistakes to avoid. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is the flight from London to Lagos?
Direct flights from London to Lagos take approximately 6 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours 40 minutes. Connecting flights with one stopover can take 9 to 12 hours depending on the layover city.
Which airports fly direct from London to Lagos?
London Heathrow (LHR) offers the most direct flights, operated by British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Air Peace. London Gatwick (LGW) also offers direct flights via Air Peace, with around 5–8 weekly departures.
Do I need a visa to fly to Lagos from the UK?
Yes. UK passport holders require a Nigeria eVisa, applied for online at evisa.immigration.gov.ng before travel. The Visa-on-Arrival scheme was discontinued in May 2025. You must also complete the mandatory Landing Card at lecard.immigration.gov.ng within 3 days before departure.
Is a Yellow Fever vaccine required for Nigeria?
Yes. A Yellow Fever vaccination and the International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card) are mandatory for all passengers entering Nigeria. You will be asked to present it on arrival. Book at your GP or a travel clinic at least 10 days before departure.
What is the cheapest airline from London to Lagos?
Air Peace from Gatwick currently offers some of the lowest fares, with one-way prices from around £356. Royal Air Maroc via Casablanca also offers competitive round-trip fares from £469. The cheapest months to fly are March and November.
What terminal does British Airways use at Lagos Airport?
British Airways arrives at and departs from the international terminals at Murtala Muhammed International Airport. International flights are handled at MMIA Terminal 1 or the newer Terminal 2, which opened in 2022. Always confirm your terminal with your airline before travelling.