The United Kingdom (UK) is the top destination for Nigerians, whether it’s for business, education, or tourism. But sometimes, when you need to make a quick trip to the UK from Nigeria or get your visa approved in time for travel, you will need a UK Priority visa.
The priority visa service is designed to expedite the visa application process, allowing you to receive a decision within a shorter timeframe (often within 5 working days). However, it is crucial to be aware of the costs associated with this type of premium service before proceeding with your application.
As of February 2024, the UK priority visa fee for standard visitor visas in Nigeria is £250 (₦ ₦286,010). While the UK Super priority visa fee in Nigeria is £950 (₦1,086,820). Please keep in mind that this amount does not include the additional application fee that you will need to pay.
Keep reading to the end to learn more about the UK Priority visa types, processing time, eligibility and requirements, and how to pay your UK visa fees. If you have any inquiries kindly drop them in the comment section below for my attention.
Table of Contents
- 1 Types of UK Priority Visa & Processing Time
- 2 Who is eligible for UK priority visa in Nigeria?
- 3 What Documents Are Required for a UK Priority Visa Application?
- 4 How to pay the UK Priority visa fee in Nigeria?
- 5 How long does it take for a UK priority visa to be approved in Nigeria?
- 6 Can a UK priority visa be rejected?
- 7 Is a UK Priority visa fee refundable in Nigeria?
Types of UK Priority Visa & Processing Time
These are two types of UK priority visa services that you need to be aware of.
Standard Priority Visa: This type of visa speeds up the processing of your visa application, usually taking 5 working days to get a decision. But be aware that in some cases, it can take longer, for example, if the UK Visa application center needs to get more information on your application. Currently, The UK Standard Priority visas in Nigeria cost £250 (₦286,010).
Super Priority Visa: This visa type allows you to get a decision on your application by the end of the next working day after your appointment. Also note that if your appointment is at the weekend or on a bank holiday, it takes 2 working days to get a decision for your visa. At the point of compiling this information, the UK Super priority visa in Nigeria cost £950 (₦1,086,820).
The overall point here is that the UK Priority visa processing time is a game-changer for those needing swift travel approvals.
Who is eligible for UK priority visa in Nigeria?
You need to find out whether you are eligible for a UK priority visa or not. Below are criteria to be met to apply for this service, they are;
- A Valid Passport: Ensure you have a valid Nigerian passport with at least six months remaining from your intended arrival date in the UK.
- Visa History: A good visa record is crucial. Past visa refusals or deportations can make you ineligible.
- Document Authenticity: All the necessary documents for your application should be present and correctly authenticated.
- Financial Preparedness: Be ready to cover the additional costs of the Priority Visa service on top of standard fees.
- Urgent Needs: Situations like immediate family emergencies or pressing medical conditions might make your case for the Priority Visa service stronger.
- Potential Roadblocks: Any adverse or concerning information about you could hinder your chances of getting the Priority Visa service.
What Documents Are Required for a UK Priority Visa Application?
You will be required to provide the following list of documents for your application:
- A valid passport or travel document
- Visa application form
- Financial Proof
- Proof of accommodation in the UK
- An invitation letter or Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (for students)
- Biometric Data
- Evidence of English language proficiency (for students)
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How to pay the UK Priority visa fee in Nigeria?
You can pay online on the UKVI website using a debit or credit card in Nigeria. You can also visit any Sterling Bank branch in Nigeria to pay for your priority visa.
Another way to pay for the UK visa fee is by asking a family member or a friend who lives in the UK to pay on your behalf. A couple of people I know who recently applied for a UK visa had to contact family or friends who are already in the UK to help them pay their visa application fees while sending them the naira equivalent because most Nigerian bank cards do not accept foreign payments.
How long does it take for a UK priority visa to be approved in Nigeria?
Usually, it takes 5 working days to get your visa approved. For Super priority service, you’ll usually get a decision by the end of the next working day. However, the type of visa you applied for, the volume of applications being processed by the High Commission, and whether or not you are asked to provide any additional papers all determine how long you will have to wait for your visa.
Can a UK priority visa be rejected?
Yes! It can be rejected if you fail to meet the UK immigration rules. Simply put, using the Priority Visa service does not ensure your application’s success. There are situations where your application can be rejected, especially where you were previously been deported, removed, or asked to leave the UK, and/or; previously overstayed a period of leave in the UK. All these and many more histories in the past may bring about the rejection of visas.
Is a UK Priority visa fee refundable in Nigeria?
Yes! If you’re eligible, you will get a refund within 28 days of canceling your application. However, if you have made a valid UK visa or immigration application, which the Home Office has considered and then either granted or refused, you will not get a refund of your application fee.
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