Japa: Over 132,000 Visas Issued to Nigerians in First Half of 2023 � UK Deputy High Commissioner

Over 132,000 Visas Issued to Nigerians in First Half of 2023 — UK Deputy High Commissioner

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that over 132,000 visas were issued to Nigerian citizens by the United Kingdom during the first half of 2023. This includes all types of visas such as travel, employment, and study visas.

Jonny Baxter, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, made this disclosure during a recent interview with NAN. While he could not provide figures for the total number of visa applications received, he highlighted the high rate of approvals as a positive development.

"If you consider Nigeria's population in relation to the rest of the world, a bigger percentage of Nigerians are really applying for those visas and traveling to the UK, which in my opinion is positive. Nigerian students make up a significant portion of foreign students studying in the UK, coming second only to India," Baxter said.

Changes in UK Student Visa Policy

Baxter also addressed the UK’s updated rules regarding students bringing dependents. The policy changes were driven by international considerations, aiming to ensure compliance with UK immigration laws.

• In 2019, Nigerian students brought about 1,500 dependents with them to the UK.
• This number is expected to increase significantly to 52,000 dependents between 2022 and 2033.

He emphasized that this is not unique to Nigeria but reflects a global trend in student-dependent migration.

Why UK Visa Prices Have Increased

According to Baxter, the UK regularly reviews immigration fees to cover the costs of visa processing. Some fees also contribute to services that visa holders may require while in the UK.

"The fees applicants pay help cover the expenses of processing visas, and in some cases, the cost of services that people may need to use while in the UK. This is entirely justifiable, but it’s important to explain it clearly so everyone understands the rationale behind the increase," he explained.

Advice for Visa Applicants

Baxter advised Nigerians to apply for visas well in advance of their intended travel dates, noting that specific procedures and deadlines must be followed.

"It’s crucial for everyone to plan ahead and ensure they comply with all requirements for a smooth visa application process," he said.