Cost of UK Visa Application in Nigeria 2025

Cost of UK Visa Application in Nigeria 2025

Introduction

The United Kingdom remains one of the top destinations for Nigerians seeking opportunities for education, employment, tourism, business, and family reunification. Each year, thousands of Nigerians apply for UK visas, and one of the most important factors in the application process is understanding the cost of UK visa applications in Nigeria in 2025.

Visa application fees are not fixed; they vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for, the duration of stay, and whether or not additional services (such as biometric enrolment, priority processing, or Immigration Health Surcharge) are required.

This comprehensive guide will give you a detailed breakdown of all UK visa categories and costs in Nigeria in 2025, the hidden expenses applicants often overlook, and practical tips to help you budget effectively for your UK travel.

Why Understanding UK Visa Costs Matters for Nigerians

Before diving into the numbers, it’s essential to understand why being fully informed about visa costs is critical:

1. Budget Planning: Knowing the exact fees ensures you save enough before starting your application.

2. Avoiding Rejections: Insufficient funds during application or at the visa interview stage can lead to refusal.

3. Realistic Expectations: Many Nigerians underestimate additional costs like the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), flight bookings, and proof of funds requirements.

4. Better Visa Choice: Understanding costs helps you choose the visa category that best suits your purpose and financial capability.

Categories of UK Visas Available for Nigerians in 2025

UK visas are broadly classified into categories, and each has different fees. Below are the most popular visa types among Nigerians:

1. UK Visitor Visas (Tourism, Business, Family Visit)

2. UK Student Visa (Tier 4/Study Visa)

3. UK Work Visas (Skilled Worker, Health & Care Worker, Tier 2 Jobs)

4. UK Family Visa (Spouse, Child Dependent, Parent Visa, Family Reunion)

5. UK Settlement and Permanent Residency Applications

6. UK Transit Visa

7. Priority and Super Priority Services

Cost of UK Visitor Visa in Nigeria (2025)

Visitor visas are the most common type applied for by Nigerians, especially for tourism, short-term visits, and business purposes.

1. 6-Month Standard Visitor Visa – £115 (~₦220,000)

2. 2-Year Visitor Visa – £400 (~₦765,000)

3. 5-Year Visitor Visa – £771 (~₦1,470,000)

4. 10-Year Visitor Visa – £963 (~₦1,835,000)

Additional Expenses for Visitor Visa:

1. Biometric fee: ₦45,000 – ₦60,000

2. Priority processing (5 days): £500 (~₦950,000)

3. Super Priority (24 hours): £1,000 (~₦1,900,000)

Cost of UK Student Visa in Nigeria (2025)

With thousands of Nigerians seeking international education, student visas are in high demand.

1. Standard Student Visa Application – £490 (~₦935,000)

Mandatory Additional Cost for Students:

1. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776 per year (~₦1,480,000).
   Example: A 2-year Master’s degree requires £1,552 (~₦2,960,000).

2. Tuberculosis (TB) Test: ₦57,000 (mandatory for Nigerian students).

3. Proof of Funds: Minimum £1,334 per month if studying in London, or £1,023 per month outside London.

Total Estimated Cost for a Nigerian Student Applying in 2025 (excluding tuition): ₦5 million – ₦10 million.

Cost of UK Work Visa in Nigeria (2025)

The UK Skilled Worker Visa, including Health and Care Worker Visas, is a popular route for Nigerians seeking employment in the UK.

Skilled Worker Visa Fees:

1. Up to 3 years – £719 (~₦1,372,000)

2. More than 3 years – £1,420 (~₦2,710,000)

3. Shortage Occupation Roles (including health care jobs): £479 (~₦915,000)

Additional Work Visa Costs:

1. IHS Fee: £776 per year (~₦1,480,000)

2. Biometric Fee: ₦45,000 – ₦60,000

3. Proof of Funds: £1,270 (~₦2,425,000) must be available in your account unless employer certifies maintenance.

Cost of UK Family Visa in Nigeria (2025)

Family visas allow Nigerians to reunite with spouses, children, or parents in the UK.

1. Spouse/Partner Visa: £1,846 (~₦3,520,000)

2. Parent Visa: £1,846 (~₦3,520,000)

3. Child Dependent Visa: £1,846 (~₦3,520,000)

Additional Costs:

1. IHS Fee: £776 per year (~₦1,480,000) per applicant.

2. English Language Test (IELTS Life Skills A1 or A2): ₦80,000 – ₦120,000.

Settlement, Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and Citizenship Costs

For Nigerians planning to permanently relocate to the UK, settlement and citizenship fees are critical.

1. Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): £2,885 (~₦5,500,000)

2. British Citizenship Application: £1,630 (~₦3,100,000)

Hidden Costs of UK Visa Application for Nigerians

Beyond the official fees, applicants should prepare for additional hidden costs such as:

1. Flight ticket to the UK: ₦800,000 – ₦1,800,000 (depending on season).

2. Hotel or temporary accommodation in the UK: ₦150,000 – ₦400,000 per month.

3. Courier Services (document return): ₦25,000 – ₦50,000.

4. Translation of documents (if needed): ₦20,000 – ₦70,000.

5. Proof of Funds Maintenance: Money in your account must be untouched for 28–90 days.

Step-by-Step UK Visa Application Process in Nigeria (2025)

1. Choose Visa Category – Decide based on your purpose (study, work, visit, or settlement).

2. Create an Online UKVI Account on the UK Government Visa Portal.

3. Fill Out Application Form – Provide accurate details.

4. Pay Visa Fees Online – Using debit/credit card.

5. Book Biometric Appointment at TLSContact in Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt.

6. Upload Supporting Documents – Passport, bank statements, admission letter, sponsor letter, etc.

7. Attend Biometrics – Fingerprints and photo capture.

8. Track Application Status – Online via TLS or UKVI portal.

9. Collect Passport – From TLSContact or courier delivery.

Common Mistakes Nigerians Make During UK Visa Application

1. Insufficient proof of funds in bank accounts.

2. Submitting fake or unverifiable documents.

3. Not accounting for IHS surcharge in budgeting.

4. Using unreliable travel agents.

5. Last-minute applications without proper preparation.

Practical Tips to Save Money on UK Visa Application

1. Apply well in advance to avoid priority processing fees.

2. Use a sponsor or employer with certified maintenance to reduce proof of funds.

3. Book flights early to save costs.

4. Keep documents well-organized to avoid rejection and costly reapplication.

Comparison Table of UK Visa Fees in Nigeria (2025)

Conclusion

The cost of UK visa application in Nigeria in 2025 is a significant financial commitment, and applicants must budget wisely to cover both official and hidden expenses. Whether you are applying for a tourist visa, student visa, work visa, or family sponsorship, being fully prepared financially will increase your chances of success.

By carefully planning, avoiding common mistakes, and preparing supporting documents in advance, Nigerians can make the UK visa application process smoother and stress-free.

For those who cannot afford to navigate the process alone, consulting a licensed UK immigration consultant in Nigeria is highly recommended. Ultimately, while the fees may appear high, the opportunities the UK offers in terms of education, career, and family life make the investment worthwhile.