1. Introduction to UK Visa Fees in Nigeria
For Nigerians planning to travel to the UK, understanding the UK visa fee structure is essential. The cost of a UK visa depends on the type of visa you are applying for, the length of stay, and whether you opt for any additional services like priority processing. This guide will break down the most common UK visa categories and their fees as of 2024.
2. How Much is the UK Tourist Visa Fee in Nigeria?
The UK Standard Visitor Visa is one of the most commonly requested visas by Nigerians for tourism, family visits, business trips, and short studies.
Standard Visitor Visa Fees
- 6-month Standard Visitor Visa: $129 USD (approx. NGN 98,000).
- 2-year Standard Visitor Visa: $486 USD (approx. NGN 368,000).
- 5-year Standard Visitor Visa: $873 USD (approx. NGN 660,000).
- 10-year Standard Visitor Visa: $1,093 USD (approx. NGN 826,000).
The 6-month visa is the most common option for short visits, while the longer-term visas allow for multiple entries during their validity period.
3. How Much is the UK Student Visa Fee in Nigeria?
If you’re planning to study in the UK, you will need to apply for a Student Visa (formerly Tier 4). This visa is required if your course lasts longer than 6 months.
Student Visa Fees
- Student Visa (General): $467 USD (approx. NGN 353,000).
In addition to the visa fee, Nigerian students may also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £624 per year of study.
Short-Term Study Visa
For courses lasting less than 6 months:
- Short-Term Study Visa: $259 USD (approx. NGN 196,000).
4. How Much is the UK Work Visa Fee in Nigeria?
For Nigerians who have secured a job in the UK, there are several work visa options available. The most common is the Skilled Worker Visa (formerly Tier 2 General), which allows skilled professionals to live and work in the UK.
Skilled Worker Visa Fees
- Up to 3 years: $805 USD (approx. NGN 609,000).
- More than 3 years: $1,590 USD (approx. NGN 1,202,000).
There are also additional fees for dependents, as well as the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £624 per year for each applicant.
Other Work Visa Fees
- Health and Care Worker Visa: $324 USD (approx. NGN 245,000).
- Temporary Worker Visa (Seasonal, Charity, Religious): $324 USD (approx. NGN 245,000).
5. UK Family Visa Fees in Nigeria
If you want to join your spouse or family members who are settled in the UK, you will need a Family Visa.
Spouse or Partner Visa Fees
- Spouse/Partner Visa: $2,126 USD (approx. NGN 1,606,000).
The Spouse Visa allows Nigerian citizens to live in the UK with their British or settled partner. It is initially granted for 2.5 years and can be renewed, eventually leading to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Child or Dependent Visa Fees
- Dependent Child Visa: $2,126 USD (approx. NGN 1,606,000).
6. Priority and Super Priority Visa Services
If you need your visa processed quickly, you can opt for priority or super priority services, which expedite the decision-making process.
- Priority Visa Service: An additional $322 USD (approx. NGN 243,000) to receive a decision within 5 working days.
- Super Priority Visa Service: An additional $1,214 USD (approx. NGN 917,000) to receive a decision within 1 working day.
7. Additional Costs for UK Visa Applications
Apart from the visa application fees, there are other potential costs to consider when applying for a UK visa from Nigeria:
1. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
If you plan to stay in the UK for more than 6 months, you will need to pay the IHS as part of your visa application. This allows you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). The fee is £624 per year for adults and £470 per year for students or children.
2. Biometric Enrollment
All applicants must submit their biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) at a visa application center in Nigeria. This process is included in your visa fee.
3. Document Translation
Any documents submitted in a language other than English or Welsh must be translated by a certified translator. The cost of translation services varies depending on the document length and provider.
8. How to Pay for a UK Visa in Nigeria
You can pay the UK visa fee through the following methods:
- Online payment using Visa or MasterCard when submitting your visa application online.
- Some visa application centers may accept bank transfers or cash payments, but online payments are the most common and preferred option.
9. Processing Time for UK Visa in Nigeria
The processing time for UK visas can vary depending on the type of visa and whether you opt for priority services. Here are the general processing times:
- Standard Visitor Visa: 3 to 6 weeks.
- Student Visa: 3 to 8 weeks.
- Skilled Worker Visa: 3 to 8 weeks.
- Priority Visa: 5 working days.
- Super Priority Visa: 1 working day.
10. Conclusion
The cost of a UK visa in Nigeria depends on the type of visa you are applying for and the duration of your stay. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, work, study, or family reunion, understanding the visa fees and additional costs will help you plan your move or trip to the UK. Be sure to budget for other expenses like the Immigration Health Surcharge and consider using priority services if you need your visa processed faster.