- The UK will transition to digital eVisas for Nigerians, phasing out physical visa stickers.
- The change will take effect on February 25, 2026.
- UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) announced this update in Abuja.
The United Kingdom has revealed a major update to its visa process for Nigerians, announcing that it will phase out physical visa stickers and move entirely to digital eVisas starting February 25, 2026.
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) made the announcement in Abuja, confirming that all new UK Visit visas for Nigerian nationals will now exist only in electronic form. This initiative is part of the UK government’s broader effort to digitize border and immigration management.
How It Will Work
Under the new system, successful applicants will no longer receive a visa sticker in their passport. Instead, their visa information will be stored digitally in a secure UKVI account. Travellers can access this account to view, manage, and share their visa details whenever needed.
UKVI emphasized that the application process itself remains the same. Applicants must still complete the online application, visit a Visa Application Centre to provide biometric data, and fulfill all eligibility and documentation requirements. The only change is that visas will now be issued and verified digitally.
Officials also reassured that Nigerians holding current physical visas will not be affected. These visas will remain valid until their expiration and do not need to be replaced simply because eVisas are being introduced.
Background
The February 2026 rollout follows earlier plans to digitize visa issuance. Previously, the British High Commission announced that digital eVisas would be implemented for most Nigerians applying for study or work visas starting July 15, 2025. The latest move now includes Visit visas, marking the country’s first full transition to online visa records for Nigerian travellers.
This change signals a significant shift for business travellers, students, and frequent visitors, moving away from passport-based documentation to a centralized online system for UK entry clearance.
Benefits of the Digital System
Gill Lever, British Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, said the policy is aimed at simplifying travel while improving security. She explained that eVisas reduce reliance on paper documents, speed up border processing, and make it easier for genuine travellers to prove their immigration status.
UKVI added that eVisas will help streamline operations, including faster processing times, since passports will no longer need to be held for visa stamping. Travellers can access their records at any time, minimizing delays caused by lost or damaged documents.
From a security perspective, authorities noted that digital visas cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with like traditional stickers. The system also allows airlines and border officials to verify immigration status in real time, enhancing overall border safety.
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