The British High Commission in Nigeria has announced the launch of new UK Visa Application Centres in Enugu and Port Harcourt, aimed at improving access for Nigerian travelers ahead of the busy summer season.
In a statement issued from Abuja, the Commission said the new centres—run by VFS Global—will allow residents of Enugu and Rivers States to submit documents and complete biometric enrolment closer to home, reducing the need to travel to Lagos or Abuja.
These Premium Application Centres join existing facilities in Abuja, Ikeja, and Victoria Island, and are expected to help manage the increasing demand for UK visas. In 2024 alone, over 230,000 visa applications were submitted by Nigerians across all categories.
Lord David Hanson, UK Minister of State at the Home Office, said the reopening of centres in Enugu and Port Harcourt reflects the growing strength of the UK–Nigeria relationship. “These new centres offer greater convenience for applicants and demonstrate our commitment to improving access,” he said.
Alok Singhal, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa for VFS Global, assured that the new locations will maintain the same high service standards. “We’re pleased to provide more touchpoints for UK-bound travelers, making the process easier and faster,” he said.
Applicants at the new centres will also have access to additional services, such as help with document uploads, real-time application updates, and optional courier delivery. The “Keep My Passport While Applying” service remains available, allowing applicants to retain their passports during processing.
VFS Global, which has partnered with UK Visas and Immigration since 2003, currently operates in 142 countries worldwide following its 2023 global expansion contract.