UK announces shift to digital-only visit visas for Nigerians from Feb. 2026

By Sandra Chukwugekwu

The United Kingdom has announced that from February 25, 2026, all new Visit visas issued to Nigerian travellers will be in digital format, known as eVisas, replacing the traditional vignette sticker placed inside passports.

According to a statement from UK Visas & Immigration, the transition forms part of the UK government’s move toward a fully digital border system.

Under the new arrangement, Nigerian applicants will continue to follow the same application process — applying online, attending a Visa Application Centre to provide biometric information, and meeting eligibility requirements. However, instead of receiving a physical visa sticker, successful applicants will access their visa electronically through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.

The British Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, Gill Lever, welcomed the development, describing it as a major step in modernising the visa process.

“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,” she said.

Lever added that the UK looks forward to continuing to welcome Nigerian visitors, students, and workers.

The statement clarified that Nigerians who currently hold valid vignette stickers do not need to take any action, as their physical visas will remain valid until expiry or replacement.

Authorities said the introduction of eVisas will allow passports to be returned more quickly after processing and enable travellers to manage their immigration status online from anywhere in the world.

Officials also noted that the digital format enhances security, as eVisas cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with.

Once a visa application is approved, applicants will be required to create a free UKVI account to access their eVisa.

The UK government said further details on the new system are available on its official immigration website.