The United Kingdom has announced that from February 25, 2026, it will discontinue the issuance of physical visa stickers for Nigerian travellers, replacing them with mandatory electronic visas (eVisas) as part of a broader shift to a fully digital immigration system.
The policy was unveiled in Abuja by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), which confirmed that all new Visit visas granted to Nigerian nationals will now be issued electronically. Under the new arrangement, successful applicants will no longer receive a visa vignette affixed to their passports. Instead, their immigration status will be accessible online through a secure UKVI account.
Authorities clarified that the visa application process remains unchanged. Applicants will still complete the standard online application, attend a Visa Application Centre to submit biometric data, and meet all eligibility requirements. The only adjustment relates to the format in which the visa is issued and accessed.
UKVI stated that Nigerians who currently hold valid physical visa stickers will not be affected by the transition. Existing visas will remain valid until their stated expiration dates and will not need to be replaced solely due to the introduction of eVisas.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, Gill Lever, said the reform is designed to simplify travel procedures while enhancing border security.
According to UKVI, the digital system is expected to shorten processing timelines, as passports will no longer need to be retained for visa endorsements. Travellers will also be able to view and manage their immigration status online at any time.
Officials added that eVisas offer enhanced security benefits, as they cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with like physical stickers. The system also allows for real-time verification of immigration status.
Once approved, applicants will be required to create a free UKVI account to access and share their eVisa details when necessary.
The reform is part of the UK’s broader border modernization strategy, with Nigerian travellers among the first groups to transition fully to digital visa issuance. For business travellers, students, and frequent visitors, the move marks a significant procedural shift toward a secure, online-based immigration record as the standard for entry clearance into the UK.
