How to Get a Nigeria Transit Visa From the UK in 2026
By GPS Team — 1/9/2026
Category: Visa Application
When Michael landed at Heathrow for his connecting flight to Lagos, he was confident everything was in order, until the airline staff told him he couldn’t board without a Nigerian transit visa. Shocked, he realised a simple oversight could derail his entire trip. He wasn’t alone. Every year, thousands of UK travellers face similar hurdles because they underestimate the importance of a transit visa when connecting through Nigeria.
According to recent data from the Nigerian Immigration Service, many visa-related travel delays were caused by incomplete transit documentation. The truth is, understanding how long it takes to get a transit visa and what documents you need can save you from stress, missed flights, and unexpected expenses.
That’s where Global Plug Services steps in, simplifying the process for travellers like Michael and you. This article breaks down everything you need to know about how to get a Nigerian transit visa from the UK in 2026, including requirements, fees, and expert tips to help you move smoothly across borders. Here, we simplify the process, ensuring you meet every requirement with zero stress. Whether you’re catching a connecting flight or planning a short stopover, we’ll walk you through each step with clarity, accuracy, and professional support.
Overview of a Transit Visa
A transit visa is a short-term travel document that allows passengers to pass through a country on their way to another destination. For instance, if you’re flying from the UK to South Africa but have a layover in Lagos or Abuja, you’ll likely need a Nigerian transit visa. It grants legal permission to stay in Nigeria for a limited period, usually between 24 to 72 hours, while waiting for your connecting flight. This type of visa is ideal for travellers who need to change airlines, stay overnight, or briefly exit the airport during transit.
Types of Transit Visa
When travelling through Nigeria (or other destinations where Global Plug Services operates), you may require a transit visa depending on whether you plan to stay within the airport or pass through border control. There are two main types of transit visas:
- The Direct Airside Transit Visa
- And the Visitor in Transit Visa.
#1. Direct Airside Transit Visa
This visa is designed for travellers who are transiting through the airport without passing through immigration or border control. You’ll remain in the airport’s international (airside) area while waiting for your connecting flight.
- Purpose: For those connecting flights without entering the country.
- Stay Duration: Up to 24 hours.
- Key Requirement: You must not pass through border control or collect checked luggage.
It’s ideal for short layovers where you remain within the airport premises. At Global Plug Services, we assist clients in ensuring their airside transit process is smooth, accurate, and compliant with travel regulations.
#2. Visitor in Transit Visa
This visa is meant for travellers who need to pass through border control before continuing their journey. This could be to collect luggage, change airports, or stay briefly before catching another flight.
- Purpose: For travellers who must go through immigration to continue their trip.
- Stay Duration: Up to 48 hours.
- Key Requirement: You must show confirmed onward travel and proof you’ll leave within the allowed time frame.
While the process seems simple, travellers often make small mistakes, like missing proof of onward travel or incorrect documentation, that can cause delays. Global Plug Services simplifies this by guiding you through every stage of the application, ensuring your transit visa is processed correctly and stress-free.
Nigerian Transit Visa from the UK: A Simple Process?
Yes, obtaining a Nigerian transit visa is relatively easy, provided all requirements are met and documents are submitted correctly. However, most travellers face delays due to incomplete paperwork, incorrect flight details, or confusion over visa categories. Therefore, the process requires attention to detail and proper timing, especially when coordinating international connections.
How Much Is the Nigeria Transit Visa Fee in the UK?
The Nigeria transit visa fee in the UK, includes the consular fee, biometrics charges, and any additional service fees. However, the transit visa cost starts from £180, depending on, depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay. Additional embassy or processing charges may also apply. However, these fees are subject to change based on updates from the Nigerian High Commission in London.
Furthermore, to avoid unexpected costs and payment errors, many travellers prefer to work with us, where all fees are clearly stated upfront. Our transparent service ensures you pay the correct amount, submit your documents to the right authority, and receive real-time updates on your visa status. Whether it’s a Nigerian transit visa or even how to get a business visa for UK travellers heading to Nigeria, our team provides full guidance.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Nigeria Transit Visa in the UK?
Typically, the processing time for a Nigeria transit visa in the UK takes between 2 to 15 working days. This depends on the completeness of your documents and the workload at the Nigerian High Commission. In some cases, applications can be delayed due to missing details, incorrect information, or peak travel seasons. This makes professional support extremely valuable.
Eligibility Requirements for a Transit Visa
To qualify for a Nigerian transit visa, travellers must meet a few straightforward requirements. Below are the key eligibility conditions every applicant should meet:
- Valid Passport: Your UK passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel date.
- Confirmed Onward Ticket: Proof of a connecting or onward flight from Nigeria to your final destination is required.
- Valid Entry Visa to Final Destination: You must show that you are authorised to enter the country you’re travelling to next.
- Proof of Funds: Evidence that you can cover expenses during your short stay, such as recent bank statements or travel receipts.
- Hotel or Accommodation Booking: If you plan to leave the airport, you must provide proof of where you’ll be staying.
- Visa Application Form: Fill out the official Nigerian Immigration Service form and submit it with all necessary attachments.
How to Apply for a Nigeria Transit Visa from the UK
Generally, a transit visa allows travellers like you who are passing through Nigeria to stay temporarily before heading to their final destination. However, mistakes in form submission, missing documents, or incorrect payment details can lead to delays or even rejections. This is why many travellers prefer to use trusted experts like Global Plug Services to handle the entire process professionally. Meanwhile, if you want to apply for a Nigerian transit visa, below is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form
Visit the Nigerian Immigration Service website and fill out the official visa application form. Ensure that all details such as passport information, flight numbers, and destination country are accurate and consistent with your travel documents. Even minor errors can cause delays.
Step 2: Make the Visa Fee Payment
After completing the form, you’ll be directed to make a payment online using the official Nigerian Immigration portal. The Nigeria transit visa fee in the UK typically ranges from £70 to £150, depending on the visa type and exchange rate.
Step 3: Book a Biometric Appointment (if required)
Next, schedule an appointment at the Nigerian High Commission in London for biometric capture and document submission. You’ll need to bring your passport, printed application form, payment receipt, flight details, and supporting documents.
Step 4: Attend the Appointment (if required)
On your appointment day, submit all required documents and complete your biometric capture (fingerprints and photo). This confirms your identity and helps the authorities verify your travel purpose. Kindly note that having all documents properly arranged, from proof of onward travel to valid entry visa for your next destination, increases your chances of approval.
Step 5: Track and Receive Your Visa
After submission, the Nigerian transit visa typically takes between 2 to 15 working days to process. You can track your application status online or through your consultant. Once approved, your passport will be endorsed with the visa, allowing you to transit through Nigeria without hassle or delay.
Why Choose Global Plug Services?
When it comes to securing your Nigerian transit visa, the journey can often feel confusing and time-consuming. That’s exactly where Global Plug Services comes in. At Global Plug Services, we specialise in simplifying the entire visa application process, from documentation to approval. This will ensure that you focus on your travel plans while we handle the technicalities.
Whether you’re travelling for business, a short stopover, or a connecting flight, our experts ensure that your Nigerian transit visa is processed accurately, quickly, and without unnecessary stress. What sets us apart is our deep understanding of international travel systems and embassy operations. Thus, we guide you every step of the way, ensuring all requirements are met and your application moves smoothly from submission to approval.
Why Global Plug Services is Your Best Choice
- Expert Visa Consultants: Our specialists are trained in handling Nigerian transit visa, ensuring your documentation meets the latest embassy standards.
- Fast and Transparent Process: We keep you updated at every stage, so you always know what’s happening and how close you are to approval.
- Personalised Assistance: Whether you’re applying for a transit visa from Nigeria to the UK or entering Nigeria for a short stay, our team tailors your application to your unique travel purpose.
- Trusted by Travellers: Hundreds of satisfied clients across the UK and Nigeria trust us because we turn what could be a complicated process into a seamless experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Get a Nigeria Transit Visa From the UK
Does the UK require a transit visa for connecting flights?
Yes, the UK requires a transit visa for certain travellers making connecting flights through its airports. If you’re a Nigerian passport holder or coming from a visa-required country, you may need a Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) or a Visitor in Transit Visa, depending on your travel plans and layover time. Therefore, it’s important to confirm your visa type before travelling to avoid any delays.
How long is a transit visa valid for?
A Nigerian transit visa or UK transit visa is typically valid for a short duration, usually between 24 to 72 hours, depending on the country’s regulations and your specific travel route.
What if I overstay my transit visa?
Overstaying your transit visa can lead to serious consequences, including fines, deportation, or future visa restrictions. Both Nigeria and the UK take visa violations seriously. Meanwhile, if your itinerary changes unexpectedly, Global Plug Services can guide you on the proper steps to extend or adjust your visa legally. This ensures that you stay compliant and avoid penalties.
Can I get a Nigerian transit visa on arrival?
Yes, travellers can obtain a Nigerian transit visa on arrival under specific circumstances, particularly when entering Nigeria for a short connection before continuing to another destination. However, this option is mainly available to those who have received prior approval through the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS).
How long does it take to get a UK transit visa in Nigeria?
The processing time for a UK transit visa in Nigeria usually takes 7 to 15 working days, depending on application volume and documentation accuracy. However, delays can occur if forms are incomplete or supporting documents are missing.
