Nigerians Get Easier Access to UK Visas with New Centres in Enugu and Port Harcourt

The UK is expanding its visa services in Nigeria by launching two new Visa Application Centres in Enugu and Port Harcourt, offering Nigerians more convenient options to process their UK visa.

The announcement came from the British High Commission, which confirmed that these new locations would allow applicants to submit their documents and complete biometrics without needing to travel long distances to Lagos or Abuja. 

Why the New Centres Matter

Over the past year, demand for UK visas from Nigerian citizens has continued to rise.
In 2024 alone, over 230,000 visa applications were received across all categories, prompting the UK government to expand its local presence.

Lord David Hanson, Minister of State at the UK Home Office, emphasised that this development reflects the growing strength of UK-Nigeria ties.
He said:

“Opening premium visa centres in Port Harcourt and Enugu will make it much easier for people to access UK services. It’s a reflection of our strong relationship.”

What Services Are Available?

The centres will be run by VFS Global, a long-term partner of UK Visas and Immigration. Applicants visiting the new centres can expect:

• Local submission of application documents
  
• On-site biometric enrolment
  
• Extra services like document upload support and real-time tracking
  

Travellers will also have the option to use the “Keep My Passport While Applying” service allowing them to hold on to their passports after submitting biometrics until a decision is made.

Alok Singhal, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa at VFS Global, stated:

“These additional centres will offer Nigerians the same quality of service already available at our centres in Abuja and Lagos.”

About VFS Global

VFS Global is a leading visa service provider that has worked with UK authorities since 2003. they expanded their partnership to manage UK visa applications in 142 countries across the globe.

Their expansion into Enugu and Port Harcourt ensures Nigerian travellers have faster, easier access to UK visa services without the stress of long-distance travel.