UK Visa Processing Time in Nigeria
It’s important to be familiar with the processing time for UK visa applications in Nigeria as it can significantly impact your decision on when to apply and arrange your travel.
For more information on UK visa application processes, including the processing time and determining the best time to apply, feel free to contact us online today. You can also reach us at +44 (0) 331630092 or call our Nigerian office at +23413438882, and we’ll be glad to help.
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Overview of UK Visa Processing Times in Nigeria
UK visa processing time is usually the waiting time after you have completed your visa application process. The processing time for visa applications in Nigeria could range from 3 to 24 weeks, depending on the visa type you applied for and your circumstances.
It’s important to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare your applications thoroughly, and submit all required documents at the time of your application to avoid delays. Furthermore, if you are planning to travel to the UK, you should start your visa application on time.
Page Contents
- Overview of UK Visa Processing Times in Nigeria
- When Does the UK Visa Application Processing Time Start and End
- Current Processing Times for UK Visa Applications in Nigeria
- Factors Affecting UK Visa Processing Times
- Priority and Fast-Track Services
- What to Do if a Decision Is Not Made on Time
- How to Check Your UK Visa Application Status
- How Can IAS Help?
- Frequently Asked Questions
When Does the UK Visa Application Processing Time Start and End
The UK visa application processing time usually starts after you have attended an appointment at the UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Nigeria to submit your biometrics or once you have completed your identity checks and submitted your application through the UKVI’s visa processing app.
The visa processing time ends after your application has been fully reviewed and a decision is reached. When the processing time has ended, the UKVI will inform you if your visa was accepted or rejected.
Current Processing Times for UK Visa Applications in Nigeria
The current processing times for UK visa applications in Nigeria vary depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. Here’s a breakdown of when to expect a decision after your application:
Visa Category | Processing Time |
---|---|
Visit visas, including Standard Visitor Visa, Marriage Visitor Visa, Transit Visa, and Permitted Paid Engagement Visa | 3 weeks |
Study Visas | 3 weeks |
Work Visas | 3 weeks |
Family Visas | 24 weeks |
Factors Affecting UK Visa Processing Times
Several factors could affect the standard processing times for the UK visa. Some factors that could delay an application process include:
- If the information you submitted in your application is inaccurate or requires further consideration.
- If there are any concerns regarding the authenticity of your supporting documents.
- If there are concerns regarding your personal circumstances, such as if you have a criminal conviction or you have a past history of immigration violations.
- If you need to attend an interview to provide more information to decide your case.
- If the visa application centre is experiencing an increase in applications or there are no sufficient caseworkers to handle the volume of applications.
Priority and Fast-Track Services
If the processing time for your UK visa application is too long for you, you may be able to pay an additional fee to apply for a faster decision on your application. There are two types of priority services available: the Standard and Super Priority services.
With the standard priority service, you will get a decision within 5 days, while the super priority service will get you a decision the next working day.
The priority services are only available for certain applications; if you are eligible, you will be told at the time of your application.
Here’s a breakdown of the cost of the priority services:
Service | Fee |
---|---|
Priority Visa service – Non-Settlement Visas | £250 |
Priority Visa service – Settlement Visas | £573 |
Super Priority Visa service | £956 |
What to Do if a Decision Is Not Made on Time
If the UKVI cannot process your application within the processing time, you should receive a letter explaining the reasons and the next steps you should take. However, if you don’t receive a notice, you can take certain steps to address the issue.
First, ensure that you have met all the visa requirements and that the information you provided is accurate. Then, contact the visa application centre to seek clarification on the delay and inquire about the status of your application.
If you are dissatisfied with the response or the delay has negatively impacted you, consider filing an official complaint. If you paid for a priority service and your application was delayed, you may be able to request a refund, depending on the reasons for the delay.
If you experience delays in your UK visa application process, it can be frustrating, especially if you have urgent travel needs. Our immigration lawyers at IAS can help you track the status of your application. Call us at +44 (0) 3316300929 and +23413438882.

How to Check Your UK Visa Application Status
After applying for a UK visa, you can stay up to date with the progress of your application online.
You can view your application status through the TLScontact website by signing in through email. You can also check your status by visiting the VFS global website and providing the necessary information to track your application.
The UKVI website also allows you to track your application after paying the required fee.
How Can IAS Help?
At IAS, we understand that immigration applications can be daunting. As such, our immigration lawyers are dedicated to providing comprehensive support and guidance to help you navigate the UK’s complex immigration process.
To learn more about how we can help you with your UK visa in Nigeria, including how to track your application status and how to chase delayed applications, contact our immigration lawyers. You can also call us at +44 (0) 3316300929, call our Nigerian office at +23413438882, or contact us online today.
Last modified on October 31st, 2023 at 12:13 pm

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Frequently Asked Questions
If your UK visa application is rejected, you can reapply. However, you should carefully review the reasons for the rejection, address any issues, and provide additional evidence or documentation to strengthen your case.
The earliest you can apply for a UK visa from Nigeria depends on the visa type you seek. Generally, you can apply up to three months before your intended travel date.
Yes, you can. However, some convictions may result in a visa refusal, particularly if they raise concerns about security, safety, or your intentions in the UK. It’s important to be honest about your criminal record when completing the visa application, as providing false information can lead to a visa rejection.
You should consult with our immigration lawyers to understand how your specific criminal record might impact your UK visa application and to explore any potential mitigation options.