Boosting Visa Services for Nigerians
The United Kingdom has inaugurated its largest Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Africa, situated in Ikeja, Lagos. Operated by VFS Global, the new facility aims to enhance visa application processes for Nigerians travelling to the UK. This announcement was made by the British High Commission in Lagos, signalling a significant investment in strengthening bilateral ties between both nations.
Enhanced Facilities for Seamless Applications
The new centre provides efficient services with extended submission hours, document upload assistance, and SMS updates for applicants. Passport courier returns streamline the process, enhancing convenience for users. Abuja residents access the Mobile Visa Service, ensuring applications from preferred locations. The Premium Lounge offers a personalised experience while maintaining visa processing timelines.
Commitment to UK-Nigeria Relations
Speaking at the launch, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, expressed optimism about the new facility. “This centre reflects the UK’s commitment to maintaining strong relations with Nigeria. It will offer applicants improved services as we continue to foster our long-standing partnership,” he said.
Rising Demand for UK Visas
Marc Owen, Director of Visa, Status, and Information Services at UK Visas and Immigration, described the facility as a milestone in providing world-class visa services. He revealed that over 225,000 UK visa applications from Nigerian nationals were processed in the year leading up to June 2024, underlining the growing demand for travel to the UK.
Supporting Nigerian Travellers
With Nigerians accounting for 5% of all global UK visit visa applications, the new facility underscores the UK’s dedication to meeting this demand. The enhanced services aim to make the application process more accessible, while maintaining high efficiency standards.
Long-standing Partnership with VFS Global
VFS Global, a trusted partner of UK Visas and Immigration since 2003, has expanded its operations to 142 countries. The opening of the Ikeja centre reinforces its role in managing visa services and supporting the UK’s global visa objectives.
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