UK new visa application fees for Nigerians start today, full details emerge

Nigerians looking to travel to the United Kingdom will pay new visa fees starting today, Wednesday, October 4, 2023.

Legit.ng had earlier reported that the UK home office announced that a visit visa to the United Kingdom for less than six months will now cost £115 (about N106,922) using the official exchange rate of N929.76/£.

The new fee represents a 15% increment compared to the previous price of £100(N92,970).

Similarly, a student visa fee has been increased from £363 to £490 (N476,677.59); representing a 35% increment.

Other changes include skilled workers, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for three years or less - main applicant and dependants visa application will now cost £827 from £719.

Fees could be higher using the black market exchange rate of N1270/£

UK defends decision

In defending the increase, the UK government said the new fees would enable it to pay for ‘vital services and allow more funding to be prioritised for public sector pay rises.

A statement published on its website reads: “The changes mean that the cost for a visit visa for less than six months is rising to £115, while the fee for applying for a student visa from outside the UK will rise to £490"

More changes

The fee adjustments extend beyond visit and student visas and encompass different categories, including entry clearance fees, leave-to-remain applications, and settlement priority services.

For full details on the various visa fee changes implemented from today click here.