The UK Government has announced that from Feb. 25, all Nigerian travellers applying for a UK Visit visa will receive an electronic visa (eVisa) instead of a vignette (sticker) in their passports.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the UK High Commission, the development was described as part of the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) transition to a fully digital border system.
Under the new policy, travellers will access their visa electronically through their UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, marking a major step in modernising the UK’s visa process.
“This move to digital visas will streamline a key part of the visa process, making it more secure while reducing dependence on paper documents.
“We look forward to continuing to welcome Nigerian visitors, students and workers to the UK. We are committed to making it easier for Nigerians to travel to the UK,” the statement quoted the British Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, Mrs. Gill Lever, as saying.
The statement clarified that visa application requirements remain unchanged. Applicants will still apply online, visit a Visa Application Centre to provide biometric information and meet all existing eligibility criteria.
The only difference is that instead of receiving a physical sticker in their passport, successful applicants will be issued a secure digital record of their immigration status.
Nigerians who currently hold a valid vignette sticker do not need to take any action, as their physical visa remains valid until it expires or requires replacement.
According to the UK Government, the introduction of eVisas offers several benefits, including faster return of passports and the ability for travellers to manage their immigration status online at any time and from any location.
The digital system also enhances security, as eVisas cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with.
Once a visa is approved, applicants will be required to create a free UKVI account to access their eVisa, with further details available on the official UK government website.