The United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has announced that from February 25, 2026, all new UK Visit visas issued to Nigerian nationals will be provided as electronic visas (eVisas), marking a major shift to a fully digital immigration system.
Under the new arrangement, successful applicants will no longer receive a vignette sticker placed in their passports. Instead, their immigration status will be issued as a secure digital record, accessible online through a UKVI account.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, UKVI said the transition is part of the UK government’s ongoing efforts to modernise border management and improve the efficiency of visa processing.
“This means travellers will access their visa electronically through their UK Visas and Immigration account, marking a significant step in modernising the UK’s visa process,” the statement said.
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Despite the change in format, UKVI clarified that the visa application process and requirements for Nigerians remain unchanged. Applicants will still complete the standard application procedure, attend a Visa Application Centre, provide biometric information, and meet existing eligibility criteria.
“The only difference is how the visa is issued: instead of a physical sticker, applicants will receive a secure digital record of their immigration status,” the agency added.
UKVI also reassured Nigerians currently holding valid vignette stickers that no immediate action is required, as their physical visas will remain valid until they expire or need replacement.
According to the agency, the introduction of eVisas is expected to offer several benefits, including faster return of passports after processing, easier access to immigration status information, and enhanced security.
It noted that eVisas cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with, providing stronger protection compared to physical documents.
Welcoming the development, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, Gill Lever, said the digital system would simplify travel procedures for Nigerians while improving security.
“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.
“We look forward to continuing to welcome Nigerian visitors, students, and workers to the UK.”
UKVI advised that once a visa application is approved, applicants will be required to create a free UKVI account to access their eVisa and manage their immigration status online.