Last reviewed: May 2026
TL;DR- VFS Global processes Nigerian visa applications for UK residents on behalf of the Nigerian High Commission.
- Biometric enrolment in person is required for all Nigerian visa types.
- UK centres are typically based in London.
- UK residents apply by completing the Nigeria Immigration Service online form first, then book a VFS appointment.
- VFS does not decide visas. The Nigerian High Commission makes the decision.
Address and Contact Details
VFS Global runs the Nigerian visa application centre in the UK on behalf of the Nigerian High Commission in London. The centre has historically been based at a London VFS site, with some periods of shared use with other African country operations.
To find the current Nigeria visa centre address, open vfsglobal.com/Nigeria/UnitedKingdom. The portal lists the exact address, postcode, opening hours and contact details.
Verify the current Nigeria visa centre address at vfsglobal.com/Nigeria/UnitedKingdom before travelling. The Nigeria Immigration Service application portal at portal.immigration.gov.ng is also a required step for most applications.
Countries and Visa Types Handled
VFS Global processes the full range of Nigerian visa categories for UK residents, including:
- Tourist visa (single and multiple entry).
- Business visa (single and multiple entry).
- Subject to Regularisation (STR) visa for foreigners taking up employment in Nigeria.
- Temporary Work Permit (TWP).
- Diplomatic and official visas.
- Transit visa.
Nigeria has also introduced an electronic visa system for some nationalities. Eligibility, list of countries and categories covered by e-Visa can change. UK residents typically complete the application online on the Nigeria Immigration Service portal and then attend VFS for biometric capture and document submission.
How to Book an Appointment
- Open portal.immigration.gov.ng and complete the visa application form.
- Pay the consular visa fee online via the Nigeria Immigration portal.
- Save the payment receipt and acknowledgement slip.
- Open vfsglobal.com/Nigeria/UnitedKingdom and create an account.
- Pay the VFS service fee and book an appointment slot.
- Print the VFS appointment letter and bring all original documents to the centre.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
- Printed VFS appointment letter with barcode.
- Printed Nigeria Immigration application form and acknowledgement slip.
- Payment receipt for the consular visa fee.
- Current passport with at least six months validity and at least two blank pages.
- Passport-style photographs.
- Proof of UK residency (BRP, vignette, settled status, or utility bill).
- Letter of invitation from a Nigerian host (notarised for some categories).
- Hotel booking or address of stay.
- Flight itinerary.
- Bank statements (typically last three to six months).
- Employer letter or business documents for business visa.
- STR or work permit approval letter for work-related visas.
Processing Times and Fees
Nigerian consular visa fees vary by visa category, number of entries and nationality. UK nationals pay a different rate from many other nationalities due to reciprocity. VFS service fees in the UK add to the consular fee.
Processing time for a standard tourist or business visa is typically 5 to 10 working days from VFS submission, though peak periods and additional checks can extend the timeline. STR and work visas can take significantly longer due to the additional approval requirements with Nigerian government agencies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need biometrics for a Nigerian visa?
Yes. All applicants must attend a VFS centre in person for biometric capture, regardless of age.
Why do I need to pay on two separate portals?
The Nigeria Immigration Service collects the consular visa fee on its own portal. VFS Global collects its service fee separately. Both receipts must be presented at the appointment.
Is there an e-Visa for Nigeria?
Nigeria has introduced electronic visa categories for some nationalities. Check the current eligibility on portal.immigration.gov.ng before booking VFS, as some applicants may now apply entirely online.
What is an STR visa?
Subject to Regularisation visa is used for foreign nationals coming to take up employment in Nigeria. It requires sponsor company approvals from Nigerian government agencies before submission.
Can someone else collect my passport at VFS Nigeria?
Depending on the category and centre policy, a representative with a signed authorisation, photo ID and the appointment letter may be allowed to collect the passport. Check current rules before sending someone in your place.
How We Verified This
We cross-referenced the VFS Global Nigeria UK portal, the Nigeria Immigration Service application portal, the Nigerian High Commission in London website, and gov.uk foreign travel advice for Nigeria. Visa categories and online application steps can change, so we have linked to the official portals for current details.
