Deputy Head of Mission at the UK Deputy High Commission in Lagos, Simon Field, has disclosed that most visa applications to the United Kingdom are granted, urging Nigerians to be transparent and genuine in their application process.
This clarification follow concerns about the UK’s new immigration policy, which was introduced in May and is expected to affect many Nigerians seeking to relocate to the United Kingdom, as reported by PREMIUM TIMES.
According to Premium Times, Field disclosed this in a morning programme Let’s Talk on Nigeria Info, Lagos, on Thursday, noted that despite the policy shifts, the UK remains open and welcoming to Nigerian visitors and immigrants.
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He said, “That’s all we’re looking for. Most visas are issued for the UK, and we’re welcoming. We really want Nigerians to come to the UK and explore London and the whole of the United Kingdom. And I promise you, most visas are issued.”
However, the Deputy Head of Mission cautioned applicants against suspicious financial practices, especially transferring large sums of money into their accounts shortly before a visa interview, describing it as a red flag to clearance officers.
He said, “One of the things that we always see with visas, which scares visa clearance officers, is people who think you have to have a certain amount of money in their accounts. And overnight, they suddenly transfer lots of money into their account, don’t do that.
“It’s bad for the visa officer because it makes you look suspicious. Just give all of the kind of information that you need around, how much money you have, and share a long-term history.”
Field stressed that there is no fixed benchmark for the amount of money required in applicants’ accounts, but applicants must show they can support themselves during their stay.
He said, “Absolutely not. There’s no benchmark for how much money you have. You just need to be able to show that you have enough money to cover your expenses while you’re in the UK.
“And it helps to show a salary because you’re more likely to return to the UK. But there’s no minimum amount they look for in your account. It’s just a certain amount to be able to cover your expenses.”
While giving cause of visa denial, Field said, “If you had less than five pounds in your account, but wanted to stay at the Ritz, for example, then maybe a UK visa clearance officer would be suspicious of that, because how are you going to pay for your hotel?”
“But if you have enough money to cover your expenses, and you show a salary or a certain amount of income, that makes it much easier.”
Meanwhile, Afrocover recently reported that the United Kingdom has introduced a stricter visa regulation.
