This comprehensive guide covers every UK visa fee in Nigeria for 2026, with costs shown in both US Dollars and Nigerian Naira. Whether you're applying for a visitor visa, student visa, work visa, or spouse visa, you'll find accurate fee tables, Home Office grant rate statistics, and step-by-step guidance for Nigerian applicants. The 6-month Standard Visitor visa costs $180 (₦243,000), while the Student visa is $743 (₦1,003,050) and the Spouse visa is $2,749 (₦3,711,150). All UK visa applications from Nigeria are processed through VFS Global centres in Lagos and Abuja.
Source: Home Office Immigration System Statistics, year ending September 2025
- Nigeria UK Visa Statistics 2025
- UK Visitor Visa Fee in Nigeria
- UK Student Visa Fee in Nigeria 2026
- UK Work Visa Fee in Nigeria 2026
- UK Spouse & Family Visa Fee in Nigeria
- Priority & Super Priority Services
- Total Cost of UK Visa from Nigeria
- How to Apply for UK Visa from Nigeria
- Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding UK Visa Fees in Nigeria 2026
The UK visa fee in Nigeria is charged in US Dollars by the Home Office, though Nigerian applicants often want to know the equivalent cost in Naira. Throughout this guide, fees are shown in both USD and NGN using the current Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) mid-rate of approximately ₦1,350 per $1 USD (February 2026). Note that exchange rates fluctuate daily—the Naira has strengthened from ₦1,445/$ in January 2026 to around ₦1,350/$ in mid-February, so always check the current rate before budgeting.
From 19 November 2024, UK visa applications in Nigeria are processed through VFS Global (replacing TLScontact). The new VFS Global centres are located in Lagos (Ikeja and Victoria Island) and Abuja. The Ikeja centre is now Africa's largest UK Visa Application Centre. If you have an existing application, check the VFS Global portal for current appointment availability and tracking.
Nigeria UK Visa Statistics 2025
Nigeria is one of the UK's largest visa markets globally. According to Home Office Immigration System Statistics (year ending September 2025), Nigerian nationals submitted over 247,000 visa applications across all categories—making Nigeria the 4th largest source country for UK visas worldwide.
| Visa Category | Applications | Granted | Grant Rate | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visitor visa | 171,933 | 105,551 | 61% | #4 |
| Student visa | 40,179 | 36,839 | 93% | #4 |
| Skilled Worker visa | 14,862 | 10,555 | 69% | #3 |
| Work visas (total) | 19,106 | 12,796 | 65% | #4 |
| Family visa | 2,069 | 1,517 | 76% | #14 |
Source: Home Office Immigration System Statistics, year ending September 2025
Nigeria has the 3rd highest visitor visa refusal volume globally, with 67,533 refusals in the year ending September 2025—behind only India (120,531) and Pakistan (68,358). The 61% visitor visa grant rate is significantly lower than South Africa (96%) and China (91%). However, student visas have a strong 93% grant rate. Applications with proper documentation, strong financial evidence, and clear travel purpose have much higher success rates. For common refusal reasons, see our guide to UK visa refusal reasons.
How Much Is UK Visa Fee in Nigeria for Visitors?
The UK visa fee for 6 months in Nigeria is $180 (approximately ₦243,000). For frequent travellers, long-term visitor visas are available: 2-year visa costs $674 (₦909,900), 5-year visa costs $1,203 (₦1,624,050), and the 10-year visa costs $1,502 (₦2,027,700). All visitor visas allow stays of up to 6 months per visit. In the year ending September 2025, Nigeria ranked #4 globally for visitor visa applications with 171,933 submissions and a 61% grant rate.
The Standard Visitor visa is the most common visa type for Nigerians travelling to the UK for tourism, family visits, business meetings, or short courses. Regardless of which visa duration you choose, each visit to the UK is limited to a maximum of 6 months.
UK Visa Fee for 6 Months in Nigeria 2026
The 6-month Standard Visitor visa is the most popular option for Nigerian applicants. It allows single or multiple entries to the UK within the 6-month validity period, with each stay limited to 180 days. This visa covers tourism, visiting family or friends, attending business meetings, and short courses of up to 30 days (or up to 6 months for recreational English study).
| Visitor Visa Duration | Fee (USD) | Fee (NGN) |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months (single/multiple entry) | $180 | ₦243,000 |
| 2 years (long-term) | $674 | ₦909,900 |
| 5 years (long-term) | $1,203 | ₦1,624,050 |
| 10 years (long-term) | $1,502 | ₦2,027,700 |
| Marriage Visitor visa | $180 | ₦243,000 |
| Visiting Academic (6-12 months) | $312 | ₦414,450 |
How Much Is 2, 5 & 10 Years UK Visa Fee in Nigeria?
Long-term visitor visas allow multiple entries to the UK over 2, 5, or 10 years—but each individual visit is still limited to 6 months. These visas are cost-effective for Nigerians who travel frequently to the UK for business or family visits. The 10-year visa at $1,502 (₦2,027,700) works out to approximately ₦202,770 per year—cheaper than applying for a new 6-month visa every year.
If you plan to visit the UK more than 4 times over 10 years, the 10-year visa ($1,502) is cheaper than buying separate 6-month visas ($180 each × 4 = $720, and any additional trips would exceed this). The 2-year visa pays for itself if you visit more than 3 times in 2 years. However, long-term visas have the same refusal rate as 6-month visas—your first application carries the most risk.
Transit Visa Fees from Nigeria
Nigerian nationals transiting through UK airports require a transit visa. The Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) costs $55 (₦74,250) for passengers who remain in the airport transit area. For those passing through UK border control, the Visitor in Transit visa costs $99 (₦133,650).
How Much Is UK Student Visa Fee in Nigeria 2026?
The UK student visa fee in Nigeria 2026 is $743 (approximately ₦1,003,050). Additionally, Nigerian students must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £776 per year of study (approximately $980 or ₦1,323,000 per year). Nigeria is the 4th largest source country for UK student visas, with 36,839 visas granted and a 93% success rate in the year ending September 2025.
The UK Student visa allows Nigerian students to study at UK educational institutions. Applicants need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor, proof of English language proficiency, and evidence of sufficient funds for tuition and living costs.
Nigerian students account for 8% of all UK student visas globally, alongside India (23%), China (20%), and Pakistan (9%)—together these four countries represent 62% of all sponsored study visas. The 93% grant rate for Nigerian students compares favourably to Bangladesh (84%) and Ghana (85%), though 2,094 applications were still refused in the year ending September 2025.
| Study Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Fee (NGN) |
|---|---|---|
| Student visa (main applicant) | $743 | ₦1,003,050 |
| Child Student visa | $743 | ₦1,003,050 |
| Short-term English study (6-11 months) | $304 | ₦402,300 |
| IHS (per year of study) | ~$980 | ~₦1,323,000 |
Since January 2024, most international students cannot bring dependants (spouse/children) to the UK. Only students on research-oriented postgraduate programmes or government-sponsored scholarships can bring family members. This policy change contributed to a significant decline in Nigerian student visa applications compared to previous years.
UK Work Visa Fee in Nigeria 2026
The UK work visa fee in Nigeria depends on the visa type and duration. A Skilled Worker visa for up to 3 years costs $1,091 (₦1,472,850), while visas over 3 years cost $2,154 (₦2,907,900). Health and Care Worker visas have reduced fees of $431 (₦581,850) for up to 3 years. Nigeria ranks #3 for Skilled Worker visa applications (14,862) with a 69% grant rate.
The Skilled Worker visa is the main route for Nigerians seeking employment in the UK. This visa requires sponsorship from a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence and a minimum salary of £38,700 (or the going rate for the occupation, whichever is higher).
Home Office statistics show a significant disparity in work visa grant rates between nationalities. Nigerian applicants achieved a 69% grant rate for Skilled Worker visas (4,306 refused), compared to 98% for US nationals and 96% for French applicants. This reflects stricter verification of salary thresholds, English language requirements, and genuine vacancy assessments.
Skilled Worker & Health Care Visa Fees
| Work Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Fee (NGN) |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker (up to 3 years) | $1,091 | ₦1,472,850 |
| Skilled Worker (over 3 years) | $2,154 | ₦2,907,900 |
| Health and Care (up to 3 years) | $431 | ₦581,850 |
| Health and Care (over 3 years) | $837 | ₦1,111,050 |
| Global Talent | $291 | ₦386,100 |
| Temporary Work visas | $452 | ₦610,200 |
Nigerian applicants face significant challenges with Temporary Worker visas, achieving only a 40% grant rate (1,822 refusals from 3,173 applications)—the highest refusal volume in this category globally. This compares poorly to Central Asian countries like Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan (99% grant rates) who dominate the Seasonal Worker route. Nigerian applicants should carefully assess whether they meet the genuine temporary work requirements before applying.
Global Business Mobility Visa Fees from Nigeria
The Global Business Mobility routes enable Nigerian professionals to transfer to UK branches of their companies:
- Senior or Specialist Worker (up to 3 years): $1,091 (₦1,472,850)
- Senior or Specialist Worker (over 3 years): $2,154 (₦2,907,900)
- Graduate Trainee: $452 (₦610,200)
- UK Expansion Worker: $452 (₦610,200)
- Service Supplier: $452 (₦610,200)
UK Spouse & Family Visa Fee in Nigeria 2026
The UK spouse visa fee from Nigeria is $2,749 (approximately ₦3,711,150). This covers the 33-month initial visa for partners, fiancé(e)s, and children joining family members settled in the UK. Processing takes up to 12 weeks for standard applications, or 6 weeks with priority service ($709 additional). Nigeria ranks #14 for family visa applications with a 76% grant rate (447 refusals from 2,069 applications).
The UK Spouse visa enables Nigerian nationals to join their British citizen or settled partner in the UK. After two visa extensions (totalling 5 years), successful applicants can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
The 76% family visa grant rate for Nigerian applicants is lower than the global average (85%) and significantly below the 95% grant rate for US applicants. The minimum income requirement of £29,000 (April 2024) presents challenges for UK-based sponsors, and genuine relationship verification remains a focus of Home Office scrutiny for Nigerian applications.
| Family Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Fee (NGN) |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse/Partner/Child visa | $2,749 | ₦3,711,150 |
| Fiancé(e) visa | $2,749 | ₦3,711,150 |
| Adult Dependent Relative | $4,840 | ₦6,426,000 |
| Returning Resident | $967 | ₦1,283,850 |
Priority & Super Priority Visa Services in Nigeria
The UK visa priority service fee in Nigeria is $709 (₦957,150) for a decision within 5 working days. Super Priority service costs $1,418 (₦1,914,300) for a next-working-day decision. These fees are in addition to the standard visa application fee and are subject to availability at VFS Global centres.
Standard UK visa processing time from Nigeria is approximately 3 weeks (15 working days) for visitor and student visas. For urgent applications, priority processing services can significantly reduce waiting times.
| Service | Processing Time | Fee (USD / NGN) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Processing | 3 weeks (15 working days) | Included in visa fee |
| Priority Service | 5 working days | $709 (₦957,150) |
| Super Priority Service | Next working day | $1,418 (₦1,914,300) |
| Settlement Priority | 6 weeks | $709 (₦957,150) |
Total Cost of UK Visa from Nigeria 2026
The visa application fee is only one part of the total cost. Nigerian applicants should budget for the Immigration Health Surcharge (where applicable), TB test, VFS Global service charges, and travel to the application centre. Here are the total costs for the most common visa types:
| Visa Scenario | Breakdown | Total (USD) | Total (NGN) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6-month Visitor trip | Visa $180 + TB test ~$80 | ~$260 | ~₦346,950 |
| 1-year Master's degree | Visa $743 + IHS ~$980 + TB ~$80 | ~$1,803 | ~₦2,394,900 |
| 3-year Skilled Worker | Visa $1,091 + IHS ~$3,912 (3yr) + TB ~$80 | ~$5,083 | ~₦5,746,950 |
| Spouse visa (initial) | Visa $2,749 + IHS ~$3,912 (33mo) + TB ~$80 | ~$6,741 | ~₦7,252,200 |
VFS Global Nigeria offers optional premium services including document scanning and courier delivery (₦15,000-₦25,000), SMS tracking (₦3,000), lounge services, and form-filling assistance. These are separate from the Home Office visa and IHS fees. The standard appointment is free—you only pay for add-on services you choose.
How to Apply for UK Visa from Nigeria
The UK visa application process from Nigeria involves completing an online application on gov.uk, paying the visa fee, and attending a biometrics appointment at a VFS Global centre. For guidance on completing the application form, see our UK visa application form guide.
- Step 1: Complete online application on gov.uk and pay visa fee (USD)
- Step 2: Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge online (if staying 6+ months)
- Step 3: Book biometrics appointment via VFS Global Nigeria portal
- Step 4: Get TB test certificate from an approved clinic (if staying 6+ months)
- Step 5: Attend VFS Global appointment with passport and supporting documents
- Step 6: Wait for decision (3 weeks standard) and collect passport or opt for courier delivery
VFS Global UK Visa Application Centres in Nigeria
UK visa applications in Nigeria are processed at VFS Global centres in Lagos and Abuja:
- Lagos (Ikeja): Ile Oja Opebi, No. 2 Opebi Road, Ikeja — Africa's largest UK VAC
- Lagos (Victoria Island): 2nd Floor, Churchgate Tower 2, Plot PC 31, Churchgate Street
- Abuja: Churchgate Plaza, Tower C, Plot 473, Constitution Avenue, Central Business District
TB Test Requirement for Nigerian Applicants
Nigerians applying for UK visas of 6 months or longer must provide a tuberculosis (TB) test certificate from a Home Office approved clinic. The TB test fee ranges from $46-$150 depending on the clinic. Approved clinics include IOM centres in Lagos (Ikeja) and Abuja, plus private hospitals like St. Nicholas Hospital and The Consultants Practice in Lagos.
- 6-month Visitor visa: $180 (₦243,000) — 61% grant rate, 67,533 refusals
- Student visa: $743 (₦1,003,050) plus IHS — 93% grant rate, #4 globally
- Skilled Worker visa: $1,091-$2,154 — 69% grant rate, #3 globally
- Spouse visa: $2,749 (₦3,711,150) — 76% grant rate, 12-week processing
- Priority service: $709 (₦957,150) for 5-working-day processing
- Exchange rate: ~₦1,350 per $1 USD (NFEM mid-rate, February 2026)
- VFS Global now handles all UK visa applications in Nigeria (Lagos & Abuja)
- TB test required for all visas of 6+ months ($46-$150)
For the most current fee information, check the official Home Office visa fee calculator. For a full breakdown of UK visa costs in British Pounds, see our UK visa fees guide. If your application is refused, see our guide on UK visa refusal reasons and chances of approval after refusal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is UK visa fee in Nigeria 2026?
The UK visa fee in Nigeria 2026 depends on the visa type. The 6-month Standard Visitor visa costs $180 (₦243,000), 2-year visitor visa is $674 (₦909,900), Student visa is $743 (₦1,003,050), Skilled Worker visa is $1,091 (₦1,472,850) for up to 3 years, and Spouse visa is $2,749 (₦3,711,150). All fees are charged in USD by the Home Office and can be paid via the VFS Global payment portal.
How much is UK visa fee for 6 months in Nigeria in Naira?
The UK visa fee for 6 months in Nigeria is $180, which equals approximately ₦243,000 at the current NFEM exchange rate of ₦1,350 per dollar (February 2026). Exchange rates fluctuate daily—the Naira has ranged between ₦1,350 and ₦1,445 per dollar in 2026. The Home Office charges fees in USD, so the Naira equivalent depends on your payment method and the rate on the day you pay.
How much is 10 years UK visa fee in Nigeria?
The 10-year UK long-term visitor visa fee from Nigeria is $1,502 (approximately ₦2,027,700). This multiple-entry visa allows unlimited visits to the UK over 10 years, with each visit limited to 6 months maximum. It works out to about $150 (₦202,500) per year—cost-effective for Nigerians who travel frequently to the UK for business or family visits.
How much is UK student visa fee in Nigeria 2026?
The UK student visa fee in Nigeria 2026 is $743 (approximately ₦1,003,050). Additionally, students must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £776 per year of study (around $980 or ₦1,323,000 annually). The total cost for a 1-year master's programme is approximately $1,803 (₦2,434,050) including visa fee, IHS, and TB test. Nigeria has a 93% student visa grant rate.
How much is 2 years UK visa fee in Nigeria?
The 2-year UK long-term visitor visa fee in Nigeria is $674 (approximately ₦909,900). This visa allows multiple entries over 2 years with each stay limited to 6 months. It is cost-effective if you plan to visit the UK more than 3 times within the 2-year period, as three separate 6-month visas would cost $531 ($180 × 3).
How much is 5 years UK visa fee in Nigeria?
The 5-year UK long-term visitor visa fee in Nigeria is $1,203 (approximately ₦1,624,050). Like all visitor visas, each visit is limited to 6 months. This visa suits Nigerian business travellers or those with close family in the UK who visit regularly. It becomes cheaper than buying individual 6-month visas after approximately 7 visits over 5 years.
How much is priority UK visa in Nigeria?
The UK visa priority service fee in Nigeria is $709 (₦957,150) for a decision within 5 working days. Super Priority service costs $1,418 (₦1,914,300) for a next-working-day decision. These fees are added to the standard visa application fee. Priority services are subject to availability at VFS Global centres in Lagos and Abuja—book early as slots fill quickly during peak seasons.
How long does UK visa take from Nigeria?
Standard UK visa processing from Nigeria takes approximately 3 weeks (15 working days) for visitor and student visas. Settlement and family visas take up to 12 weeks. With Priority service ($709), processing reduces to 5 working days; Super Priority ($1,418) delivers a decision by the next working day. Processing may take longer during peak seasons (June-September for student visas). If your visa is delayed beyond the stated timeframe, see our guide on UK visa delays.
Where can I apply for UK visa in Nigeria?
UK visa applications in Nigeria are submitted through VFS Global Visa Application Centres. There are three locations: Lagos Ikeja (Africa's largest UK VAC at Ile Oja Opebi, 2 Opebi Road), Lagos Victoria Island (Churchgate Tower 2), and Abuja (Churchgate Plaza, Constitution Avenue). Book appointments via the VFS Global Nigeria portal after completing your online application on gov.uk.
What is the UK visa success rate for Nigerians?
UK visa success rates for Nigerians vary significantly by visa type (Home Office statistics, year ending September 2025). Student visas have the highest grant rate at 93% (36,839 granted). Family visas have a 76% grant rate. Skilled Worker visas have a 69% grant rate. Visitor visas have the lowest success rate at 61%, with 67,533 refusals—the 3rd highest volume globally. To improve your chances, provide comprehensive supporting documents, demonstrate strong ties to Nigeria, and show clear evidence of funds.