Many Nigerians are keen on traveling to the United Kingdom for various purposes. Some are with the intention of going there to further their education, while some are simply going over for tourism purposes. While some people are interested in getting the visa just to conduct some businesses in the country, some other persons are seeking to settle in the UK permanently.
Irrespective of the category you fall into, worry no more, as this article will guide you guide to the UK visa application that will make your visa application much easier.
Before starting the process, travellers must familiarise themselves with the different types of visas so as to choose the right one. It is also necessary to stress out the need of having an international passport that is valid for at least 1 month after your intended stay in the United Kingdom.
Travellers should ensure they check their eligibility before beginning the application process and submitting their application well in advance of flight departure.
Which UK Visa do You Need?
Actually, the most popular UK visa is the Standard Visitor Visa (that is, the Tourist Visa). This Visa is meant for a short stay of up to 6 months in the country. So, if you want to simply visit friends and loved ones, for a seminar or training, or perhaps just for holiday or vacation, this will be fine.
UK Visa Requirements
• A valid international passport with a page that is blank on both sides
• One passport photograph that meets the requirements
• Completed visa application form (this is filled in online)
• Proof of finances, such as an original bank statement that is not older than 3 months
• Confirmation of accommodation and flight bookings
• A letter of invitation if you are being sponsored by a friend or family member
• Original marriage certificate if you are travelling with your spouse
• Recent utility bills
If you have more documents that can help strengthen your application, don’t hesitate to include them.
How to Apply for UK Visa
First of all, travellers need register a user account on the GOV.UK website and will be able to double check what type of visa they will need.
Then, fill out the application form, pay the visa fee, and book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre. An email will be sent confirming the appointment as well as what documents to bring along. You will also get a GWF number which you will need for the next step.
Now, proceed to register your details on the TLScontact website. Note, anyone that won’t register won’t be allowed to attend their appointment.
Attend your appointment and submit your biometrics at a UK Visa Application Centre. It should be noted that the visa fee will no longer be refundable after you have submitted your biometrics.
Simply wait for your visa application to be processed, and you can track things on the TLScontact website.
Collect your passport at the specified Visa Application Centre. Don’t worry, you will be alerted when it is ready for collection.
UK Visa Fees
You should budget about ₦45,000 to get a Standard Visitor Visa. Please, note that he UK visa fees are different for each visa category.
UK Visa Application Submission
You can submit your UK visa applications at one of the Visa Application Centres in Lagos or Abuja from Monday to Friday, between 8:30 and 16:30 (except on public holidays)
We should add again that the earliest travelers can apply for a UK visa is 3 months before their intended departure date.
UK Visa Processing
UK visa application processing can actually take four to six working days. But it should be noted that some visa applications can take a longer period if documents are missing or some other complications.
UK Visa Collection
Visas and passports can be collected between 10:00 and 16:00 from Monday to Friday (except public holidays).
Travellers will get an SMS when their application has been sent to the UK Embassy on the submission day and will be informed when the passport arrives back at the UK Application Centre and is set for collection.
Travelers are required to bring copies of their application documents, an original photographic ID, and a copy of the biodata page in their passport.
Note: Someone else cannot collect your documents on your behalf. The exception is if you are probably a government representative, a parent collecting for your child or children, or perhaps you are collecting on behalf of your family if you applied together.
UK Visa Rejection
No one loves being rejected. However, here are the most common reasons for UK visas being rejected:
• Not submitting genuine documents
• When you have received a deportation order
• When found guilty of a crime that warrants four years or more of jail time
• Withholding documentation of a criminal background
• Not having a lot of money in your bank account
• Overstaying a previous visit to the United Kingdom
• Submitting fraudulent documents on a previous trip to the United Kingdom
• If you don’t comply with all the application requirements
• Lack of a valid passport or travel documents
Please, take note of the fact you won’t get a refund if you miss your appointment or your visa application is rejected.
UK Visa Application Centre Addresses in Nigeria
UK Visa Application Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos
First Floor, Churchgate Building, Tower 2, Churchgate Street, Victoria Island, Lagos
Website: TLScontact Victoria Island, Lagos
UK Visa Application Centre in Ikeja, Lagos
Ground & First Floors, Etiebets Place, 21 Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way
Website: TLScontact Lagos
UK Visa Application Centre, Abuja.
Third floor, El-Yakub Building (beside Metro Plaza), Plot 1129 Zakariya Maimalari Street, Central Business District
Website: TLScontact Abuja
British Deputy High Commission, Lagos
11 Walter Carrington Crescent British High Commission, Abuja
Plot 1137, Diplomatic Drive, Central Business District
Please note that all information provided in this article is correct at the time of publishing and may change at any time without prior notice.
If you have any issue with the United Kingdom Visa application you drop your questions here or contact any of the addresses above
