Visa Rejections: What Nigerians are Doing Wrong and How to Get Approved

For many Nigerians, visa rejection has become frustratingly common, costing not just money, but time, mental energy, and missed opportunities. From the UK to Canada and across Schengen countries, applicants often face unclear reasons, poor communication from embassies, and what feels like unfair scrutiny.

Nigerian students and professionals are increasingly targeted for extra scrutiny, especially if applying without strong travel history or financial backing.

Here are five common reasons Nigerians get visas rejected:

1. Weak Travel History

Many embassies prioritise applicants who’ve previously travelled to visa-free or “easier” countries. A clean passport can look suspicious, especially for long-stay visas.

Fix: Build a solid travel profile by visiting nearby countries first (e.g., Ghana, Kenya, South Africa), or attend short conferences/workshops abroad.

2. Unconvincing Financial Proof

Showing a balance of ₦300,000 in your account a week before applying for a €5,000 trip is a red flag. Embassies now cross-check account histories for sudden cash inflows.

Fix: Provide consistent bank statements over 6 months and include payslips, tax returns, or proof of business income.

3. Unclear Ties to Nigeria

Embassies want to know you’ll return. If you’re unemployed, recently resigned, or cannot prove strong ties (like property, family, or job), expect rejection.

Fix: Attach job letters, tenancy agreements, business registrations, or family documents that clearly tie you to Nigeria.

4. Incorrect or Incomplete Documents

This is one of the most avoidable errors. A wrong photo size, an unsigned form, or a missing supporting letter can ruin an otherwise solid application.

Fix: Follow embassy instructions to the letter. Have someone review your application before submission.

5. Dubious Travel Purpose

Some applicants claim to be attending a business conference but actually submit a tourist itinerary. Others claim they’re students but can’t prove admission or funding.

Fix: Be specific, honest, and consistent across your application, documents, and interview responses.

How to Improve Your Chances in 2025

• Start small. Get travel stamps from visa-free or visa-on-arrival countries to improve your credibility.
  
• Work with vetted visa consultants or travel lawyers. Avoid unverified “agents” promising guaranteed visas.
  
• Apply early. Especially for Schengen or UK student visas, applying 2–3 months before your trip gives you time to make any necessary corrections.
  
• Use the right visa category. Don’t apply for a tourist visa if your true purpose is to study, job hunt, or relocate.

Besides emotional stress, the financial cost is massive. A single Schengen visa application costs €90 (~₦150,000) and that’s just the start. Add logistics, document fees, and you could lose up to ₦400,000 on a failed attempt.

TechCabal reports that Nigerians lost nearly ₦8 billion in Schengen visa fees in 2024 alone. With better planning, realistic applications, and a clean, credible profile, you can turn things around.

As visa rejection rates climb in 2025, your best weapon is preparation. Learn from others’ mistakes, invest in good documentation