From February 25, 2026, Nigerian applicants for UK Visit visas will receive digital eVisas instead of passport stickers
UK Goes Fully Digital: Nigerian Travellers to Get eVisas Instead of Passport Stickers from Feb 25
Nigerian travellers heading to the United Kingdom are set for a major upgrade in the visa process. Starting February 25, 2026, all new UK Visit visa approvals for Nigerians will come as electronic visas (eVisas) — ditching the traditional physical sticker in passports.
The British High Commission in Abuja made the announcement on Monday via a statement from Senior Communications Officer Onyinye Madu.
“From 25 February 2026, all Nigerian nationals applying for a UK Visit visa will receive an eVisa, rather than a vignette (sticker) in their passports,” the statement said.
Under the new system, successful applicants will access their visa details securely through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account — part of the UK’s broader shift to a fully digital immigration border.
Reassuringly, the core requirements stay exactly the same: applicants must still apply online, visit a Visa Application Centre for biometrics, and satisfy all eligibility rules. The only difference is the delivery format — a secure digital record replaces the paper vignette.
Existing physical visa stickers remain valid until expiry or renewal — no action needed for current holders.
The transition promises real perks for Nigerians: quicker passport returns after processing, anytime-anywhere online management of immigration status, and beefed-up security since eVisas can’t be lost, stolen, or forged.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, Gill Lever, welcomed the change as a win for travellers.
“We are committed to making it easier for Nigerians to travel to the UK. This move to digital visas will streamline a key part of the visa process, making it more secure while reducing dependence on paper documents. We look forward to continuing to welcome Nigerian visitors, students and workers to the UK,” she said.
Once approved, applicants will need to set up a free UKVI account to view and manage their eVisa ahead of travel.
This Nigeria-specific rollout aligns with the UK’s phased global move to eVisas in 2026, modernising border controls while keeping the welcome mat out for legitimate visitors. Read More
