Between June 2023 and June 2024, the British government processed more than N40 billion in visas for Nigerian citizens.
At least 225,000 Nigerian visa applications were handled during the reviewed period, according to Marc Owen, director of visa, status, and information services at UK Visas and Immigration. He gave a speech at the opening of the largest UK visa application center (VAC) in Africa, Lagos, Nigeria.
Continuing, with a statement available to BrandSpur Nigeria news today, the British High Commission, Lagos cited the Director of Visa: “In the year to June 2024, we processed more than 225k UK visas for Nigerian nationals across all categories and this new partnership demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring our visa services are accessible, efficient and meet the needs of all applicants.”
Adding: “I’m delighted to be here in person as we celebrate this important moment together with our customers and partners.”
The Director of Visa did not disclose the precise number of visa applications, but a study comparing the 225,000 Nigerians listed as the lowest number with the $150 UK six-month regular visitor charge reveals that the UK made almost $34 million from processing. This would equal more than N40 billion if the average exchange rate from June 2023 to June 2024 was N1,200. Even if processing is unsuccessful, the application fee for a visa is not refundable.
Nigeria was one of five nations where study visa refusal rates increased in the second half of 2023, according to statistics released earlier this year by the British government. About one out of every eight applications in Nigeria were denied in Q4 2023, compared to one out of every 31 in Q4 2022. Although at lower accruals, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, and Indonesia also had significant visa denial rates.
The only nation where fewer applications were received than Nigeria was India. When compared to the final three months of 2022, the data indicated that issuances to Nigerians had decreased by 63%. The rise in denials coincided with stricter UK immigration visa regulations.
Following adjustments to the graduate route post-study work visa, the British government claimed that modifications to dependant visa laws sparked unfavorable feelings in both nations. A large number of Nigerians are now seeking assistance from the United States.
With 20,029 students enrolled in the US during the 2023–2024 academic year, Nigeria was the largest supplier of international students in Africa and the seventh largest source worldwide. Nigeria’s enrollment numbers represented a 13.5 percent increase over the previous year.
