UK Set to Tighten Visas for Nigerians, Pakistanis and Sri Lankans Over Immigration Abuse Concerns

The UK government is considering stricter visa rules for countries with high rates of overstaying, including Nigeria, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, according to a report first published by The Times.

The Home Office warned that nationals from these countries often overstay their visas and later apply for asylum — a route that can lead to permanent residency.

In a statement, a Home Office spokesperson said: “Our upcoming Immigration White Paper will set out a plan to restore order to our broken immigration system.” The department also cited abuse of work and study visa routes.

The move follows major immigration reforms that have already affected Nigerian nationals, particularly in study and work visa approvals.

Visa rejections for Nigerians reportedly rose from 1 in 31 to 1 in 8 between late 2022 and 2023, with a 63% drop in total approvals.

Despite the financial burden of non-refundable visa fees, thousands continue to apply.

The British government reportedly earned over N40 billion from Nigerian visa applications in one year.

As UK and US visa routes become more restricted, experts in Africa are urging citizens to build opportunities at home rather than seek uncertain futures abroad.