UK Immigration Rules October 2026: Changes for Nigerians

What Are the Main Changes?

• Skilled Worker visa protections: From 8 October, eligible Skilled Worker visa holders who are confirmed victims of modern slavery will receive additional protection, including greater flexibility to work without remaining dependent on an employer responsible for their exploitation.
• Student visa financial requirements: From 30 November, international students must demonstrate maintenance funds of £1,570 per month for courses in London or £1,203 per month for courses outside London. For courses lasting nine months or longer, this amounts to £14,130 or £10,827 respectively, in addition to tuition fees.
• Family and settlement applications: Changes effective from 8 October extend the domestic abuse settlement provisions to certain adult dependent children. Amendments also affect long residence, private life and specific family-related applications.
• Application procedures: New rules restrict certain uses of fee-waiver requests and biometric enrolment procedures to extend immigration permission while an application is pending.

How Will These Changes Affect Nigerians?

Nigerians planning to study in the UK from 30 November may need to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover living costs, depending on when they apply.

Skilled Worker visa holders experiencing exploitation may benefit from the new protections. Those applying to join family members or settle in the UK should also check whether the amendments affect their eligibility.

Some applications submitted before the relevant commencement dates will be considered under the previous rules, although this does not apply to every amendment.

The changes do not introduce a general increase to Skilled Worker salary thresholds or the Spouse visa minimum income requirement.

Nigerians preparing UK immigration applications should establish which requirements apply to their circumstances before submitting their documents.

IAS can help assess eligibility, explain the updated rules and assist with UK visa and settlement applications. Contact our Lagos office on +234 201 330 6361.