Are you a Nigerian citizen planning to travel to the United Kingdom in 2025?
Whether your purpose is to study, work, visit, or join family members, understanding the UK visa application process and associated fees is crucial for a successful journey.
This comprehensive guide will provide you with up-to-date information on the various types of UK visas available to Nigerians and their corresponding fees as of January 2025.
The United Kingdom offers a wide range of visa options to cater to different purposes of travel.
Before embarking on your application journey, it’s essential to identify the most suitable visa category for your specific needs.
The application process typically takes place in Nigeria, but certain adjustments can be made while in the UK.
Upon approval, you’ll receive written confirmation of your visa status.
It’s important to note that fees vary depending on the visa type and are payable in British pounds, making them subject to exchange rate fluctuations.
Also Read :
UK Visitor Visa Fees from Nigeria
UK Visa Application Fees from Nigeria 2025: Understand Your Options for Studying, Working, and Visiting
For Nigerians planning short-term visits to the UK, several visitor visa options are available.
Here’s a breakdown of the different types and their associated costs:
Standard Visitor Visa
- Purpose: Tourism, business, family visits, short-term studies
- Duration: Up to 6 months
- Cost: £115
Frequent Visitor Visas
- 2-year visa: £400
- 5-year visa: £771
- 10-year visa: £963
Child Visitor Visa
- Purpose: For children under 18 traveling alone or with an adult
- Duration: Up to 6 months
- Cost: £115
Visitor Visa for Private Medical Treatment
- Duration: Less than 6 months
- Cost: £115
- Duration: Up to 11 months
- Cost: £200
UK Visiting Academic Visa
- Duration: 12 months
- Cost: £200
To extend your stay from 6 months to 12 months while in the UK, the fee is £1,000.
For more information on UK visitor visas, visit the official
UK Visas and Immigration website.
UK Student Visa Fees from Nigeria
Nigerian students have three main routes for studying in the UK:
Student Visa
- Purpose: Further or higher education
- Eligibility: Over 16 years old
- Fee: £490
Child Student Visa
- Purpose: Study at an independent school
- Eligibility: 4 to 17 years old
- Fee: £490
Short-term Study Visa
- Purpose: Study English for up to 11 months
- Fee: £200
For detailed information on UK student visas, check the official UK government website.
UK Work Visa Fees for Nigerians
The UK offers various work visa options for Nigerian professionals:
Skilled Worker Visa
- Duration: Up to 3 years
- Cost: £719
- Duration: Over 3 years
- Cost: £1,420
Shortage Occupation List Visa
- Duration: Up to 3 years
- Cost: £551
- Duration: Over 3 years
- Cost: £1,084
Health and Care Worker Visa
- Duration: Up to 3 years
- Cost: £284
- Duration: Over 3 years
- Cost: £551
To learn more about UK work visas, visit the UK Visas and Immigration work visas page.
Business Visitor Visas
For business-related visits, the following options are available:
Global Business Mobility Visa
- Cost: £298 to £1,420 (depending on duration and specialization)
Global Talent Visa
- Cost: £192 to £716 (with approval letter requirements)
High Potential Individual Visa
- Cost: £822
International Sportsperson Visa
- 12-month visa: £298
- Longer durations: £719
Innovator Founder Visa
- Cost: £1,191
Scale-up Visa
- Cost: £822
For more information on business visas, check the UK business visa guidelines.
UK Family Visa Fees from Nigeria
If you’re joining family members in the UK, you’ll need a Family Visa. Fees vary based on your relationship:
- Spouse/Civil Partner/Unmarried Partner/Fiancé/Proposed Civil Partner/Child: £1,846
- Adult Dependent Visa: £3,250
- Parent of a Child Student: £637
For detailed information on family visas, visit the UK family visa page.
Application Process and Tips
To ensure a smooth UK visa application process, follow these steps:
- Determine the appropriate visa type for your purpose of travel.
- Gather all required documents, including a valid passport, proof of funds, and any supporting evidence.
- Complete the online application form accurately and thoroughly.
- Pay the visa fee and any additional charges, such as the Immigration Health Surcharge if applicable.
- Schedule and attend your biometric appointment at a visa application center in Nigeria.
- Submit your application and supporting documents.
- Wait for a decision on your application.
Click here to start your UK visa application
Additional Costs to Consider
When budgeting for your UK visa application, keep in mind these potential additional expenses:
- Immigration Health Surcharge: Required for most visa types lasting over 6 months
- Priority and Super Priority visa services: For faster processing times
- Translation services: If your documents are not in English
- Travel costs to attend your visa appointment
- Tuberculosis test: Required for certain nationalities applying for visas longer than 6 months
Visa Processing Times
Processing times for UK visas can vary depending on the type of visa and the time of year. Generally, you can expect:
- Standard visitor visas: 3 weeks
- Work and study visas: 3 weeks
- Family visas: 12 weeks
For up-to-date processing times, check the UK visa processing times page.
Conclusion
Navigating the UK visa application process from Nigeria requires careful planning and attention to detail.
By understanding the various visa types, fees, and requirements, you can increase your chances of a successful application.
Remember to always check the official UK government websites for the most current information, as visa policies and fees may change.
For personalized advice tailored to your specific situation, consider consulting with a qualified immigration expert or contacting the UK visa application center in Nigeria.
Additional Resources
To further assist you in your UK visa application journey, here are some additional resources and related topics:
Scholarships for Nigerian Students in the UK
Many Nigerian students dream of studying in the UK but are concerned about the costs. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships available specifically for Nigerian students. Some notable options include:
- Chevening Scholarships: Fully-funded scholarships for outstanding professionals to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK.
- Commonwealth Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria, to study at UK universities.
- GREAT Scholarships: Offered by UK universities in partnership with the British Council.
Learn more about UK scholarships for Nigerian students
How to Apply for UK Universities
If you’re interested in studying in the UK, follow these steps to apply to UK universities:
- Research and choose your preferred courses and universities.
- Check the entry requirements for each course.
- Prepare your application documents, including academic transcripts and English language test results.
- Apply through UCAS for undergraduate courses or directly to the university for postgraduate programs.
- Wait for offers and respond to them.
- Apply for your student visa once you have an unconditional offer.
Start your UK university application journey
Working in the UK After Graduation
For Nigerian students who wish to work in the UK after completing their studies, the Graduate Route visa offers an excellent opportunity. 
Key points include:
- Available to international students who have completed a UK degree
- Allows you to work or look for work in the UK for 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates)
- No need for a job offer to apply
Discover more about the Graduate Route visa
Healthcare in the UK for Visa Holders
Understanding the UK’s healthcare system is crucial for visa applicants. The National Health Service (NHS) provides comprehensive healthcare services, but access depends on your visa type and duration:
- Visas over 6 months: You’ll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your application.
- Short-term visas: You may need to pay for some NHS services or consider private health insurance.
Learn about healthcare for visa holders in the UK
UK Cost of Living for Nigerian Students and Professionals
Before moving to the UK, it’s essential to understand the cost of living. Expenses vary significantly depending on the city and your lifestyle. Key costs to consider include:
- Accommodation
- Food and groceries
- Transportation
- Utilities
- Entertainment and social activities
Estimate your living costs in the UK
Cultural Adaptation and Support for Nigerians in the UK
Moving to a new country can be challenging. Fortunately, there are numerous resources and communities to help Nigerians adapt to life in the UK:
- Nigerian Student Societies at UK universities
- Nigerian community groups and associations in major UK cities
- Cultural events and celebrations
Find Nigerian communities in the UK
By exploring these additional resources and topics, you’ll be better prepared for your UK visa application and your potential move to the United Kingdom.
Remember to always refer to official sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding UK visas and immigration policies.
