UK introduces digital eVisas for Nigerian study, work applicants

The United Kingdom has announced a major shift in its visa processing system for Nigerian nationals, introducing digital eVisas for study and work applicants beginning 15 July 2025. According to a statement issued by the British High Commission in Abuja, successful applicants will no longer receive physical visa stickers—known as vignettes—in their passports.  Instead, they […]

The United Kingdom has announced a major shift in its visa processing system for Nigerian nationals, introducing digital eVisas for study and work applicants beginning 15 July 2025.

According to a statement issued by the British High Commission in Abuja, successful applicants will no longer receive physical visa stickers—known as vignettes—in their passports. 

Instead, they will be issued a secure online record of their immigration status, marking a significant step in the UK’s transition to a fully digital immigration system.

“This is a further big step to a fully digital UK immigration system, making the process more secure, more efficient, and more convenient for students, professionals, and families,” said Chargé d’Affaires, Gill Lever OBE.

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The change applies only to applications submitted on or after 15 July. Those who apply before that date will continue with the existing process, which includes submitting their passport at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) and receiving a vignette.

Despite the removal of the physical sticker for most categories, all applicants must still attend a VAC to provide biometric information. Once a decision is made, successful applicants will receive an email from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) with instructions to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa.

However, Lever clarified that not all applicants will be affected immediately. “If you’re applying as a dependant, like a spouse or child, of someone who is studying or working in the UK or if you are applying for a visitor visa, you’ll still receive a visa vignette sticker in your passport for the time being,” she said.

The High Commission noted that eVisas have already replaced Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) for individuals granted leave for over six months. 

Holders of a UKVI account can use the “View and Prove” service to securely share their immigration status with third parties such as employers and landlords in England.

Applicants are advised to begin their application online via the official UK government website and follow all instructions provided in their decision notification.