7 Easiest Ways to Relocate to the UK from Nigeria

Relocating to the United Kingdom (UK) from Nigeria has become one of the easiest ways to escape the economic hardships and poverty that the nation grapples with.

This comes as an analysis from the UK Home Office report revealed that Nigerians accounted for 40% of all dependants who accompanied foreign students.

Since the UK has become a second home to Nigerians, it becomes necessary to look at the easiest ways to consider when relocating. It is however important to note that the UK government is currently tightening its immigration rules. 

So if you are desiring to access better opportunities and participate in a good economy, pay attention to the following relocation methods.

UK Student visa

One of the most popular ways to relocate to the UK from Nigeria is through a student visa. In this way, you can study at any UK university or college, as long as you meet the entry requirements. 

To apply for this visa you must have been offered a place on a course by a licensed student sponsor, have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course, can speak, read, write and understand English and have consent from your parents if you are below 18. 

Once you complete your studies, you may be able to stay in the UK to work or find a postgraduate course. Also, you will be allowed to work part-time to equip you with the financial resources needed to pay your bills.  

Skilled worker visa

Categorised as the Tier 2 visa, the skilled worker visa is designed to bring in people, including Nigerians to work in industries that are experiencing labour shortages.

To qualify for this visa, you must work for a UK employer, have a certificate of sponsorship from your employer with information about the role you have been offered in the UK, do a job that’s on the list of eligible occupations and be paid a minimum salary.

UK Family visa

If you have a spouse, partner, or dependents who are British citizens or settled in the UK, you may be able to apply for a family visa. You will need to show that you have a genuine relationship with your family member, and you will need to meet certain financial requirements.

Also, the UK Spouse Visa will only be issued if you and your partner are both aged 18 years and above. 

Investor visa

The UK investor visa is categorised under Tier One Visas. They are some of the visa applications with the highest probability of success. It is for people who are investing a significant amount of money in the UK economy. 

To qualify for this visa, you will need to invest at least £2 million in a UK business.

UK Start-up visa

This visa is for people who are starting their first business in the UK. You will need to have a business plan that shows that your business has the potential to succeed. 

This visa has no requirements for initial capital investment. However, applicants must first obtain an endorsement from an approved endorsing body confirming that their business is innovative, viable and scalable.

Refugee visa

If you are fleeing persecution in your home country, you may be able to apply for asylum in the UK. You will need to show that you have a genuine fear of persecution, and you will need to go through a rigorous assessment process.

When you apply, you will be screened by an immigration officer. After the screening, the Home Office will decide if your claim can be considered in the UK. If it is considered, you will have an asylum interview with a caseworker and get a decision on your application within 6 months.

Humanitarian visa

This visa is for people who are in need of humanitarian protection in the UK. It involves five years of permission to stay in the UK, with the right to work and study, and access to the NHS and benefits.

You will also have the rights to a family union as a refugee and can apply for indefinite leave to remain in the UK when your five years expire. You may be eligible for this visa if you are fleeing war, famine, or other natural disasters.