The United Kingdom will fully replace paper visa documents with electronic visas (eVisas) for all travelers beginning February 25, 2026, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) announced. This change applies to visitors who require a visa to enter the UK.

An eVisa is a digital record of a traveler’s identity and immigration status, including visa type, settlement status, and conditions such as work or study permissions. Travelers must access their eVisa via a UKVI account before traveling to the UK.

“From 25 February 2026, visitors to the UK who need a visa will get an eVisa only. Create your UKVI account and view your eVisa before travel,” UKVI confirmed on their official X platform.

How the eVisa System Works

• Access Your eVisa: Travelers must set up a UKVI account, if they don’t already have one, to view and manage their eVisa.
• Share Code: Upon approval, travelers receive a share code to verify their immigration status when applying for jobs, renting properties, or accessing services in the UK.
• No Cost: Setting up a UKVI account and accessing the eVisa is free of charge.

The UK government stated that eVisas will replace biometric residence permits (BRPs), biometric residence cards (BRCs), and traditional wet-ink stamps or vignettes previously placed in passports.

Benefits of the UK eVisa

• Digital Convenience: Eliminates the need for physical documents, reducing delays and the risk of lost paperwork.
• Secure Verification: Travelers can securely prove their immigration status using a digital share code.
• Streamlined Travel: Simplifies the visa process for visitors, including tourists, students, and workers.

Travelers who already have a valid visa will need to follow UKVI guidance to transition to the new eVisa system.

The UK government emphasizes that all travelers must check their eVisa and ensure travel details, including passport information, are up to date before departure.

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British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery CMG, shared this update during a media briefing on UK-Nigeria economic relations held in Abuja. He emphasized that the robust trade relationship forms a vital component of the broader bilateral partnership between both countries.

Addressing recent developments on UK immigration policy, Montgomery acknowledged the valuable contributions of foreign healthcare professionals, including many from Nigeria. However, he noted that a significant surge in migration—around 2.6 million entries recorded over a six-month period—has raised concerns about economic sustainability and public service capacity.

Montgomery also pointed out that Nigerians represent roughly 10% of annual visitors to the UK. He emphasized that while the UK remains open to genuine travelers and investors, concerns about fraudulent visa applications have led to increased scrutiny. He advised applicants to ensure the accuracy and completeness of supporting documents to avoid rejections.

On Nigeria’s economic outlook, the High Commissioner expressed optimism, praising President Bola Tinubu’s reform efforts aimed at improving investor confidence and business accessibility. However, he also voiced concern about the country’s security situation, describing it as a critical challenge.

Montgomery attributed some of the insecurity to regional instability, particularly from conflicts in Sudan and Niger. He revealed that the UK is working closely with Nigeria’s Office of the National Security Adviser and investing in security initiatives to support stabilization efforts.

The envoy concluded by reaffirming the UK’s commitment to fostering economic growth and mutual prosperity with Nigeria while encouraging transparent and lawful immigration processes.

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Announced on Wednesday, the reforms reduce the post-study work visa period from two years to 18 months, limiting the time international graduates, including Nigerians, can stay in the UK after their academic programs. The changes were outlined in a White Paper released by the UK Home Office as part of broader efforts to tighten legal migration and reform the visa system.

In addition to shortening the graduate visa route, the UK government has doubled the standard residency requirement for foreign nationals seeking indefinite leave to remain—from five years to ten. This extension will make the path to permanent residency significantly longer for many immigrants.

The Home Office stated that the graduate visa had diverged from its intended purpose and had increasingly become a route for unsponsored employment. To address this, new compliance standards will be imposed on educational institutions that recruit international students. Universities with low rates of student progression into employment or those found to engage in questionable recruitment practices could face penalties, including suspension of their ability to sponsor foreign students.

The reforms also touch on the employment sector. The immigration skills charge, which is paid by employers sponsoring migrant workers, will rise by 32 percent. Additionally, skilled worker visa eligibility will now require a university degree, and access for roles that fall below this level will be strictly limited and based on labor shortages.

The UK government emphasized that these reforms are intended to shift focus back to developing domestic talent while only attracting top-tier global professionals who can contribute to strategic growth sectors. “We will continue to provide fast-track routes for exceptionally skilled individuals who can help boost the UK economy,” the White Paper noted.

In response to the announcement, the British High Commission in Nigeria acknowledged the strong bilateral ties between both countries and promised to engage with the Nigerian government once the implementation timeline is clearer.

“The UK continues to be a top destination for Nigerians seeking education, work, and settlement opportunities. We value the vital contribution Nigerians make to the UK,” a spokesperson said.

The Commission added that while the reforms aim to restore control and balance to the immigration system, they would be rolled out gradually, allowing time for consultations and adjustments.

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In 2025, high-demand jobs eligible for visa sponsorship span sectors such as healthcare, engineering, IT, education, and hospitality.

For those seeking employment opportunities in the UK, understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and visa options is essential.

In this article, Tribune Online presents a list of key sectors in the UK with high demand for skilled professionals in 2025 according to TSCollege.in.

1. Health Care & Social Care

Persistent shortages are anticipated for nurses, doctors, paramedics, social workers, and care assistants.

2. Engineering

Civil, mechanical, electrical, and software engineers are needed across industries like construction, infrastructure, and technology.

3. Information Technology (IT)

High demand is expected for software developers, cybersecurity experts, data analysts, and AI professionals.

4. Education

Shortages in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and computer science teachers are likely to continue.

5. Hospitality and Catering

Chefs and hotel managers remain in high demand due to the growing hospitality industry.

6. Skilled Trades

Welders, electricians, plumbers, and construction workers are needed to support UK infrastructure projects.

Eligibility for Visa-Sponsored Jobs

To qualify for a UK work visa in shortage occupations, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor.
• Provide evidence of meeting the minimum salary threshold for the role and experience level.
• Possess the necessary qualifications and work experience for the position.
• Demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test, unless exempt.
• Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the employer as part of the application process.

Types of Work Visas for High-Demand Jobs

In 2025, skilled professionals can apply for the following visa categories:

1. Skilled Worker Visa

The primary route for skilled workers in shortage occupations, offering long-term employment and settlement opportunities.

2. Health and Care Worker Visa

Designed for individuals working in health and care sectors or eligible medical roles.

3. Global Talent Visa

For exceptional talents in science, digital technology, and the arts, offering flexibility without employer sponsorship.

4. Scale-up Visa

Allows skilled workers to join fast-growing UK companies meeting specific growth criteria.

How to Apply for a UK Work Visa in 2025

The application process involves the following steps:  

• • Secure a job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor visas.
  • Ensure the employer applies for a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) on your behalf.
  • Apply online through the UK Home Office website.
  • Submit supporting documents, including qualifications, financial evidence, and proof of English proficiency.
  • Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge, then complete biometric enrollment at a visa application center.
  • Await the visa decision, which typically takes a few weeks depending on processing times.

Salary Thresholds and Benefits for Sponsored Jobs

Salary thresholds vary by role and are set by the UK government. In 2025, the general salary threshold for the Skilled Worker Visa is expected to remain at £26,200 per annum or £10.75 per hour, with lower requirements for shortage occupations.

Benefits of sponsored jobs include:

• Legal right to work in the UK for the visa duration.
• Eligibility for dependents (spouse and children) to accompany the visa holder.
• Opportunity to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years of continuous residence

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Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, disclosed this after Tuesday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He highlighted key government efforts to strengthen the healthcare system, including the approval of N12 billion for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) equipment across six tertiary health institutions.

“People are now coming from the subregion and even from distant places like the UK and the US to receive quality healthcare in Nigeria,” Pate said. “Despite challenges, significant progress is being made, and the transformation promised by President Tinubu is taking shape.”

The approved contracts include the procurement and installation of MRI machines and CT scanners at:

• University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Akwa Ibom
• Federal Medical Center, Abeokuta, Ogun State
• Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Osun State
• Federal Medical Center, Keffi, Nasarawa State
• Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, Adamawa State
• Federal Teaching Hospital, Kebbi, Kebbi State

Pate emphasized that this investment in critical diagnostic infrastructure is part of broader efforts to expand the nation’s healthcare capacity and enable tertiary institutions to offer world-class medical services.

Another key decision from the FEC meeting was Nigeria’s ratification of the African Medicines Agency (AMA) Treaty, aimed at harmonizing medical regulatory standards across the continent. The treaty, adopted by the African Union in 2019, seeks to improve access to safe, high-quality medical products through a unified regulatory framework.

“So far, 37 African Union member states have signed the treaty, with 26 having ratified it. Today, FEC directed that Nigeria take all necessary steps to fully implement this treaty,” Pate said.

The move is expected to expand Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry, allowing locally manufactured medical products to meet continental standards and gain wider recognition.

“What we produce will not just be ‘Made in Nigeria’ but will also be recognized as ‘Made in Africa.’ This is a crucial step towards self-sufficiency in medical products and pharmaceutical industrialization,” the minister added.

Pate credited President Tinubu’s leadership for driving these reforms, stating that while challenges remain, Nigeria’s health sector is on a transformative path.

“We are investing in infrastructure, human resources, and regulatory frameworks to build a healthcare system that Nigerians can rely on and that attracts patients from around the world,” he said.

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This move aims to attract top-tier professionals in alignment with the country’s economic goals but could create hurdles for both applicants and employers.

Under the revised rules, the minimum salary for most applicants will jump from £26,200 to £38,700—an 82% increase.

Thresholds for candidates with advanced qualifications will also see notable changes. Those with a relevant PhD will need to meet a salary of £34,830, up from £23,800, while applicants with STEM-related PhDs must meet a threshold of £30,960, an increase from £20,960.

Roles on the shortage occupation list and those designated for new entrants will also face a salary benchmark of £30,960.

Additionally, the 20% discount previously applied to shortage occupation roles will be removed, further narrowing eligibility.

These adjustments are expected to impact key sectors, including technology, healthcare, and engineering.

While fewer roles may qualify under the new criteria, eligible positions could experience reduced competition due to the heightened salary requirements.

Employers will need to reevaluate their budgets to align with the updated standards, potentially fostering a more skilled and well-compensated workforce.

The new thresholds, derived from median salary levels, signal a stricter immigration policy framework.

While these measures aim to position the UK as a hub for top-tier talent, they present challenges for job seekers negotiating higher wages and employers dealing with increased sponsorship expenses.

For recent graduates and other early-career professionals, certain discounts remain available, providing a pathway to meet the requirements.

However, the changes represent a strategic shift toward prioritising fewer, higher-paying roles within the UK immigration system.

The post 2025: What to know about increased salary thresholds for Skilled Workers in UK appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Nigerian naira has broken new ground by trading below N2,000 to the British pound for the first time in five months, marking a significant shift in the country’s foreign exchange market.

The currency began the week at N2,225 to the pound but concluded at N1,980, showing a remarkable gain of N245 over the course of the week.

This impressive performance in the parallel market, where the pound stood at N1,980 on Saturday morning, has been attributed to ongoing reforms in the Nigerian currency market. These reforms have helped improve market conditions, which have been struggling due to challenges such as weak oil production, fiscal issues, low export capacity, and speculative practices.

The recent recovery in the naira’s value is largely due to a combination of factors, including the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) proactive measures. These included the issuance of a successful Eurobond and the implementation of a new trading platform, Bloomberg BMatch, aimed at improving the effectiveness and transparency of the foreign exchange market.

The platform, which was launched on November 26, 2024, provides an automated trade-matching system designed to ensure market integrity and foster better price discovery.

The effects of the Bloomberg BMatch system have already been noticeable, with a reduction in speculative activities and a noticeable improvement in the naira’s performance in the black market. As a result, speculators are finding it increasingly difficult to adjust to the new system, which has led to a greater willingness to sell dollars and reduced hoarding.

Additionally, the CBN’s introduction of a centralized pricing mechanism and a set of new rules for the Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System (EFEMS) has further streamlined operations and enhanced confidence in the naira. The new system mandates that all foreign exchange transactions be processed through a central platform to ensure transparency and provide public access to daily exchange rates.

This improvement in the value of the naira also highlights the continued strong financial relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. The UK was responsible for nearly 50% of Nigeria’s capital investments in the first half of 2024, reinforcing the economic ties between the two nations. The UK’s significant investments over the past decade continue to make it Nigeria’s primary source of capital imports, with $2.93 billion invested in the first half of 2024 alone.

While the British pound has enjoyed a period of relative stability, gaining against both the euro and the U.S. dollar, the strength of the pound and the resilience of Nigeria’s economy suggest the possibility of more favorable exchange rates in the near future. As Nigeria’s foreign exchange market continues to evolve, the naira’s strengthened position may signal a promising direction for the nation’s economic recovery and growth.

 

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According to a statement from the British High Commission on Wednesday, the new VACs are operational in three locations across Nigeria-(Abuja, Ikeja, and Victoria Island (Lagos). These centres have been accepting applications since November 19, offering streamlined services for travellers to the UK.

Speaking at the launch, British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Jonny Baxter, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative:

“I am delighted to witness the opening of this, the largest visa application centre in Africa. Nigeria remains one of the UK’s most important partners, and we hope that VFS delivers ever-improving services for those applying for visas to the UK.”

Mr. Marc Owen, Director of Visa, Status, and Information Services at UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), also emphasized the importance of this milestone:

“In the year to June 2024, we processed more than 225,000 UK visas for Nigerian nationals across all categories. This new partnership demonstrates our commitment to ensuring accessible, efficient visa services that meet the needs of all applicants.”

VFS Global, the UKVI’s partner since 2003, reaffirmed its dedication to providing top-tier services. Alok Singhal, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa at VFS Global, noted:

“We are excited to embark on this new journey with UK Visas and Immigration here in Nigeria. We look forward to bringing travellers from Nigeria our best-in-class services.”

Nigerian customers can now access optional premium services designed for comfort and convenience. These include document upload assistance, Prime Time application submission (outside business hours), SMS notifications, courier return of passports, and the “Keep My Passport While Applying” service, allowing applicants to retain their passports until a decision is reached. Additionally, residents in Abuja can take advantage of the On Demand Mobile Visa service to submit applications from their preferred locations, and the Premium Lounge for a personalized experience.

Nigeria remains one of the top nationalities applying for UK visas, contributing to 5% of the global total for visit visas. In Africa, VFS Global now operates UK Visa Application Centres in 31 countries and has expanded its reach to 142 countries globally under the new contract. This development is expected to improve the visa application experience for Nigerians while reinforcing the UK’s commitment to its partnership with the nation.

The post UK Opens Africa’s Largest Visa Application Centre in Lagos appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The UK Home Office has announced an increase in the proof-of-funds requirement for student visa applicants. Starting January 2, 2025, international students will need to demonstrate a monthly financial capacity of £1,483 (approximately ₦3 million) for their stay in London.

This policy adjustment addresses inflation and the rising cost of living, according to the Home Office. Students studying outside London will see their maintenance requirement rise from £1,023 to £1,136 (approximately ₦2.4 million) per month.

New Rules for Financial Eligibility

International students must provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover living expenses throughout their study period. The UK government noted that these updates aim to align the financial requirements for international and domestic students, ensuring self-sufficiency during their studies.

Acceptable sources of proof of funds include:

• Personal savings
• Family sponsorship
• Scholarships
• Educational loans

Implications for Nigerian Students

The increase in proof-of-funds requirements is expected to impact Nigerian students significantly. With the Naira’s ongoing depreciation against the Pound, many families may find it difficult to meet the financial demands. In the 2022/2023 academic year, Nigerian students comprised 6.5% of the UK’s international student population, totaling 53,790 students.

Experts suggest that this policy change could reduce the number of Nigerians pursuing education in the UK. It highlights the need for robust financial planning and support systems to maintain access to global education opportunities amid economic challenges.

The adjustments emphasize the importance of financial preparedness for prospective international students.

The post UK to Increase Proof-of-Funds Requirement for Student Visas to £1,483 per Month, Effective January 2025 appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Kemi Badenoch on Saturday won the vote to become the UK Conservatives’ new leader, replacing Rishi Sunak who quit after the party’s disastrous showing in July’s general election.

Here Vanguard highlights five (5) things to know about the new Conversative Party leader

• Political Career: Kemi Badenoch is a prominent British politician who has served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Saffron Walden since 2017. She has held various government positions, including Minister for Equalities and Secretary of State for International Trade.

• Background: Badenoch was born in Wimbledon, London, to Nigerian parents. Her childhood was spent in part of the United States of America, and in Lagos, Nigeria. She returned to the United Kingdom at the age of 16. She was educated at the University of Sussex and has a background in technology and finance.
• Conservative Party Member: As a member of the Conservative Party, Badenoch is known for her strong stance on issues like free speech, education reform, and economic development. She has gained recognition for her views on promoting diversity of thought within the party.
• Leadership Aspirations: Badenoch ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party in 2022, showcasing her ambition and vision for the party’s future. Although she did not win, her candidacy raised her profile significantly.

• Controversial Stances: Badenoch has been a vocal critic of certain aspects of political correctness and identity politics, which has drawn both support and criticism. She advocates for policies that she believes promote equality without undermining individual merit.

Her victory means she becomes the official face of the opposition and face off against Labour’s Keir Starmer in the House of Commons every Wednesday for the traditional Prime Minister’s Questions.

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