Cost of Relocating to United Kingdom from Nigeria: ₦4,566,796–₦18,270,835

Relocating to the UK from Nigeria costs between ₦4,500,000 and ₦18,000,000 ($3,300–$13,200) in 2026, depending on visa type and city. The UK remains one of the most popular but expensive japa destinations due to the Immigration Health Surcharge, high salary thresholds, and London rent prices — though routes like the Health and Care Worker visa offer significant savings.

Visa Options for United Kingdom

Student Route to United Kingdom

Top Cities in United Kingdom for Nigerians

Insider Tips for Relocating to United Kingdom

Your Relocation Checklist

1. 1

   Secure a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor

   Find an employer who holds a valid UK sponsor licence. Check the register of licensed sponsors on the UK government website — your employer must issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship.

2. 2

   Take IELTS for UKVI — minimum B1 (4.0 each section)

   Book the IELTS for UKVI (not regular IELTS). You need at least B1 level (4.0 in each component) for Skilled Worker visa. Some roles require B2.

3. 3

   Check if your occupation is on the Shortage Occupation List

   If your role is on the Shortage Occupation List (SOL), you benefit from a lower salary threshold and reduced visa fees. Check the current SOL on the UK government website.

4. 4

   Apply for Skilled Worker Visa online (£819–£1,618 depending on duration, from 8 April 2026)

   Complete the online visa application on gov.uk. The fee depends on your visa duration and whether your role is on the shortage list.

5. 5

   Pay Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035/year)

   The IHS gives you access to the NHS. You must pay this upfront for the full duration of your visa — it is a significant cost on top of the visa fee.

6. 6

   Provide bank statements showing £1,270 held for 28 days

   Show your bank statements proving you have at least £1,270 in your account for 28 consecutive days. Your employer can also certify maintenance on your behalf.

7. 7

   Get TB test certificate from approved clinic in Nigeria

   Nigeria is on the UK's list of countries requiring a tuberculosis test. Get tested at an approved clinic (available in Lagos and Abuja) before applying.

8. 8

   Attend biometrics appointment at VFS Global Lagos/Abuja

   Book an appointment at VFS Global in Lagos or Abuja to submit your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) as part of your visa application.

9. 9

   Set up your UKVI account and access your eVisa

   Since November 2024, the UK issues digital immigration status (eVisa) instead of physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRP). Create your UKVI account at gov.uk/get-access-evisa before travelling — your eVisa confirms your right to live, work, and rent in the UK. Save your share code for employers and landlords.

10. 10

    Book flight and arrange UK accommodation

    Once your visa is approved, book your flight and arrange initial accommodation. Many Nigerians stay in temporary housing for 2–4 weeks while finding a permanent rental.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to relocate from Nigeria to the United Kingdom?

The total cost of relocating from Nigeria to the United Kingdom ranges from ₦4,500,000 to ₦18,000,000 ($3,300–$13,200) in 2026, depending on your visa type and destination city. The Skilled Worker visa costs approximately ₦10.6 million including the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035/year for up to 5 years), while the Health and Care Worker visa is significantly cheaper at ₦3.6 million as it is exempt from the IHS. London is the most expensive city for settlement, with one-bedroom rent averaging £1,800/month. Use the Japa Calculator to get a personalized cost estimate based on your specific situation.

How much does it cost to relocate from Nigeria to the UK in naira?

In Nigerian Naira, relocating to the UK costs between ₦4,500,000 and ₦18,000,000 at 2026 exchange rates. The Skilled Worker visa fees break down as: application fee ₦1,560,000 (£819 from April 2026), Immigration Health Surcharge ₦6,199,500 (£1,035/year for 3 years), proof of funds ₦2,533,500, and IELTS ₦322,500. The Health and Care Worker visa saves significantly — no IHS charge, with a reduced fee of £324 (~₦616,500), reducing total fees to about ₦3,700,000. Flights from Lagos to London cost ₦825,000–₦975,000 one-way. First-month rent plus deposit in London requires ₦5,400,000–₦7,200,000. Use the Japa Calculator for real-time Naira estimates.

What is the cheapest way to move to the United Kingdom from Nigeria?

The cheapest way to move to the UK from Nigeria is through the Health and Care Worker visa, which costs approximately ₦3,562,500 ($2,375) in total government fees — you are exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge (saving over £3,000) and the visa fee is reduced to £324. To minimize costs further: choose cities outside London (Birmingham and Leeds offer 35–45% lower rent), apply for NHS nursing roles that include relocation packages, and take your IELTS in Nigeria rather than the UK. For tech workers, the Skilled Worker visa through companies on the Immigration Salary List offers reduced fees.

Can I relocate to the United Kingdom from Nigeria without an agent?

Yes, you can relocate to the UK from Nigeria without an immigration agent. The UK Home Office application process is fully online through GOV.UK — you create an account, fill in the forms, upload documents, and book your biometrics appointment at the VFS Global centre in Lagos or Abuja. Free resources include GOV.UK's immigration guidance, Citizens Advice, and OISC-registered organizations. If you do need professional help (complex cases or previous refusals), ensure your adviser is registered with the OISC (Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner) — using an unregistered adviser is a criminal offence in the UK.

How long does it take to relocate from Nigeria to the United Kingdom?

Relocating from Nigeria to the UK typically takes 1–4 months depending on your visa type. The Skilled Worker visa processes in about 3 weeks (standard) or 5 working days (priority, extra £500). The Health and Care Worker visa is often faster. Student visas take 3 weeks standard. The Global Talent visa takes 8–11 weeks (endorsement plus visa processing). Add 1–2 months for preparation: securing a job offer from a licensed sponsor, taking IELTS, gathering documents, and attending biometrics at VFS in Lagos or Abuja. Use the Japa Calculator to plan your specific timeline.

What documents do I need to relocate from Nigeria to the United Kingdom?

To relocate from Nigeria to the UK, you need: a valid Nigerian passport, Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your UK employer (for work visas), IELTS for UKVI test results (minimum scores vary by visa), proof of funds showing £1,270 held for 28 consecutive days (for Skilled Worker visa), tuberculosis test certificate from an approved clinic in Lagos or Abuja, criminal record certificate from the Nigeria Police Force, and your academic certificates and transcripts. All documents not in English must have certified translations. Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are taken at the VFS Global centre.

What is the UK Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) in 2026?

The IHS is £1,035 per year for most adult visa applicants, paid upfront for the full visa duration — so a 3-year Skilled Worker visa means £3,105 ($4,130) per person. Students pay a reduced rate of £776/year. Health and Care Worker visa holders and their dependants are fully exempt from the IHS, which is a major cost saving.

What is the minimum salary to get a UK Skilled Worker visa in 2026?

Since July 2025, the general minimum salary threshold is £41,700 per year (up from £38,700). However, there are important exceptions: applicants under 26 or switching from a Student/Graduate visa may qualify at £33,400, Health and Care Workers need only £25,000, and STEM PhD holders can qualify at £33,400. The going rate for your specific occupation code may require a higher salary.

Can Nigerian nurses move to the UK easily?

Yes — the Health and Care Worker visa is the most common route. You need NMC registration, which requires passing the CBT exam (can be taken in Nigeria) and the OSCE practical exam (taken in the UK). You also need IELTS with a minimum 7.0 overall. The visa fee is reduced (£324 for up to 3 years), you're exempt from the IHS, and the minimum salary is £25,000. The full process typically takes 6–12 months.

What is the UK Graduate Route visa?

The Graduate Route lets international students stay and work in the UK for 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates) after completing a qualifying UK degree — no job offer or minimum salary required. It costs £937 to apply. Important change: from January 2027, the duration drops to 18 months for students starting courses from January 2026 onwards. PhD graduates keep the 3-year term.

Do I need a job offer to move to the UK?

It depends on the visa. The Skilled Worker visa and Health and Care Worker visa both require a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor — you cannot apply without one. The Global Talent visa does not require a job offer but you need endorsement as a leader in your field. The Student visa requires a university offer, and the Graduate Route (post-study) lets you work freely without a sponsor for 2 years.

How much does it cost to study in United Kingdom from Nigeria?

Tuition fees for Nigerian students range from $15,000–$45,000/year (₦22,500,000–₦67,500,000/year). On top of tuition, you need to show £1,529/month (London), £1,171/month (outside London) for living expenses. Popular student cities include London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Birmingham. The student visa type is the Student Visa (Tier 4).

Can Nigerian students work in United Kingdom?

Yes. On a Student Visa (Tier 4), Nigerian students can work 20 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays. After graduation, Graduate Route — 2 years work permit after graduation (3 years for PhD graduates). This work experience can be your bridge to permanent residency or a longer-term work visa.

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