Relocating from Nigeria to the UK can be an exciting journey, but it comes with significant costs. From visa application fees to travel expenses and settling-in costs, it’s essential to budget carefully. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the expenses you can expect when relocating from Nigeria to the UK, including visa fees, flight costs, accommodation, living expenses, and additional charges.
1. Visa Application Fees
The first step in moving to the UK is obtaining a visa. The cost varies based on the type of visa you are applying for.
Common Visa Types for Nigerians Moving to the UK
- Skilled Worker Visa: Typically used for employment purposes.
- Application Fee: £610 – £1,408, depending on the visa duration and type.
- Healthcare Surcharge: £624 per year.
- Student Visa (Tier 4): For individuals moving to study in the UK.
- Application Fee: £363.
- Healthcare Surcharge: £470 per year for students.
- Family Visa: For those joining family members in the UK.
- Application Fee: £1,538.
- Healthcare Surcharge: £624 per year.
- Visitor Visa: For short-term visits or exploring options.
- Application Fee: £100 for up to 6 months.
Example Total Visa Fees:
For a Skilled Worker Visa with a 3-year term, the total would be around £1,834 (visa fee and healthcare surcharge), or roughly ₦1.8 million.
2. Flight Costs from Nigeria to the UK
Flight prices vary based on the airline, season, and whether you book in advance.
- Average One-Way Ticket: ₦300,000 – ₦500,000 (approx. £320 – £530).
- Airlines: Popular airlines on this route include British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Qatar Airways.
To save money, consider booking tickets several months in advance and looking for deals during off-peak travel seasons.
3. Accommodation Costs
Accommodation in the UK, particularly in major cities like London, can be expensive. Here’s a breakdown:
Temporary Accommodation on Arrival
If you plan to stay in a hotel or short-term rental while finding permanent housing:
- Average Cost: £50 – £150 per night, depending on location and quality.
Permanent Accommodation Options
Rent prices vary significantly based on the city and type of accommodation. In general:
- London: £1,200 – £2,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Outside London (Manchester, Birmingham): £600 – £1,200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Shared Accommodation: £300 – £700 per month.
Example Budget:
For a one-bedroom apartment outside of London, budget around £800 per month, which is roughly ₦815,000.
4. Cost of Living and Daily Expenses
Your monthly cost of living will vary based on your lifestyle, city, and spending habits. Here are some essential monthly expenses to consider:
- Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water): £100 – £150.
- Internet: £20 – £30.
- Food and Groceries: £150 – £300.
- Transportation: £60 – £100 (public transportation pass).
- Mobile Phone: £10 – £30.
Estimated Monthly Living Expenses:
For a single person, expect monthly living costs of around £500 – £800 outside of rent, or about ₦500,000 – ₦815,000.
5. Health Insurance (IHS Surcharge)
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is mandatory for most visa types and allows you to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.
- Cost: £624 per year (for most visas).
For example, if you’re moving on a Skilled Worker Visa for three years, the total IHS cost would be £1,872 or about ₦1.9 million.
6. Miscellaneous and Relocation Costs
Additional expenses often arise during relocation. Here are some to keep in mind:
- Shipping Personal Items: £300 – £1,000 depending on the volume and shipping company.
- Initial Furniture and Household Items: £500 – £1,500 if your accommodation is unfurnished.
- Visa Priority Processing (if desired): Additional £220 – £800, depending on the service.
7. Total Estimated Costs for Moving from Nigeria to the UK
Based on typical costs, here’s a sample budget for moving as a single person on a Skilled Worker Visa:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa Fees and IHS (3 years) | £3,280 |
| Flight (One-Way Ticket) | £320 – £530 |
| Temporary Accommodation (2 weeks) | £700 – £1,200 |
| Rent (1 month outside London) | £800 |
| Initial Living Expenses (1 month) | £500 – £800 |
| Shipping and Furniture | £500 – £1,000 |
| Miscellaneous (Emergency Fund) | £500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | £6,600 – £8,110 |
This translates to roughly ₦6.8 million – ₦8.4 million (based on a conversion rate of 1 GBP = 1,020 NGN).
8. Tips for Reducing Relocation Costs
- Book Flights Early: Plan and book your flight well in advance to get lower prices.
- Consider Shared Housing: Living with roommates can help cut down on rental expenses, especially in cities like London.
- Shop for Second-Hand Furniture: Check out online marketplaces or charity shops for affordable furniture and household items.
- Use Public Transportation: Opt for public transport to save on transportation costs.
- Choose Affordable Cities: If you’re not bound to work in London, consider cities like Manchester, Leeds, or Birmingham, where the cost of living is generally lower.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I work immediately after arriving in the UK?
Yes, if you have a visa that permits work (such as a Skilled Worker Visa), you can start working upon arrival.
2. Do I need a separate health insurance plan?
The IHS provides access to the NHS, which covers most medical needs, but some people opt for private health insurance for additional coverage.
3. Is it cheaper to live outside of London?
Yes, cities outside of London, such as Manchester or Birmingham, have lower rent and living expenses.
4. Can I bring family members on a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes, you can bring dependents, but there are additional visa fees and healthcare surcharges for each family member.
5. Can I pay the IHS in installments?
No, the IHS fee must be paid upfront at the time of your visa application.