Travel to Nigeria from the UK: Your Complete Pre-Departure Checklist

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Travelling from the UK to Nigeria is more straightforward than many people expect, but it does come with a few steps that are important to get right. Some travellers overprepare and stress themselves out. Others underprepare and run into avoidable delays.

If you’re planning a trip, whether for tourism, visiting family, business, or a cultural experience, this guide walks you through what’s usually required, what surprises people, and what you should double-check before booking that flight.

No complicated jargon. No panic. Just what you need to know.

A Valid Passport (And Why the Expiry Date Matters More Than You Think)

Firstly, ensure you have a valid passport.

For travel from the UK to Nigeria, your passport should generally be valid for at least six months beyond your intended return date. This isn’t unique to Nigeria; it’s a common international travel requirement, but it’s one people forget to check early enough.

You’ll also want to make sure you have at least one or two blank pages available. Immigration stamps and visas take space, and a nearly full passport can cause delays.

If your passport is close to expiring, renew it before you start the visa process. It saves time and frustration.

 

A Nigerian visa (most UK travellers will need one)

If you’re travelling on a UK passport, you will need a visa to enter Nigeria.

Nigeria does not currently offer visa-free entry for UK passport holders, so this step is non-negotiable. The type of visa you apply for depends on the purpose of your trip: tourism, business, visiting family, or attending events.

Most travellers apply through:

• The Nigerian High Commission in the UK, or 
• The official Nigerian visa application platform, followed by biometric enrolment and passport submission.
  

Processing times can vary, so it’s wise to apply well ahead of your travel date. Waiting until the last minute is one of the most common mistakes travellers make.

 

Proof of Purpose: Why They Want to Know Why You’re Visiting

Nigeria, like many countries, wants clarity on why you’re coming.

Depending on your visa type, you may be asked for:

• A hotel reservation or address where you’ll be staying 
• An invitation letter (for family visits or business travel) 
• Details of an event, meeting, or conference (if applicable) 

This doesn’t mean your plans have to be rigid. It just means you should be able to explain your visit clearly and consistently.

 

Return or Onward Travel Evidence

You’ll usually need to show that you don’t plan to overstay.

This typically means having:

• A return flight ticket, or 
• Proof of onward travel outside Nigeria.
  

Airlines often check this before boarding, not just immigration officers on arrival. Even if immigration doesn’t ask, the airline might.

 

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate (Very Important)

This is one requirement many travellers forget until the last moment.

Nigeria requires travellers to present a yellow fever vaccination certificate on arrival. This is an international health regulation, not a Nigerian-only rule.

In the UK, you can get this vaccination at:

• Travel clinics 
• Some GP surgeries 
• Private vaccination centres
  

Once you receive the vaccine, you’ll be issued a Yellow Card (International Certificate of Vaccination). Keep it with your travel documents; you may be asked for it at the airport in Nigeria.

 

COVID-19 and Health Entry Rules (Always Check Current Updates)

Health entry requirements can change.

While COVID-related rules have eased globally, entry protocols may still be updated based on public health decisions. These can include health declarations, proof of vaccination, or other screening measures.

Because these rules can change quickly, it’s best to:

• Check official Nigerian government or embassy sources 
• Confirm airline-specific requirements before departure.
  

Never rely on old blog posts alone for health-related entry rules.

 

Proof of Funds (Not Always Asked, But Essential to Have)

Most travellers are not asked to show proof of funds upon arrival, but it’s still wise to be prepared.

Having:

• Ensure you have access to a debit or credit card. 
• Some local or international currency 
• Evidence of accommodation can help if questions arise.

This is more about reassurance than strict enforcement.

YOU MAY LIKE: 

• Nigeria Travel Requirements from the USA (2025 Update)
• Health and Safety Travel Tips: Packing Guide for Nigerian Travel
• How to Plan Your First International Travel Without Losing Your Mind (or Your Money)

 

Address and Contact Details in Nigeria

You may be asked where you’ll be staying.

Having:

• A hotel name 
• A residential address 
• A local contact number (if available) makes the arrival process smoother.

Even if you’re staying with friends or family, write the address down somewhere accessible.

What UK Travellers Often Forget to Prepare

Many UK-based tourists assume everything will be digital. While Nigeria is well-connected, printed copies still matter.

It’s smart to carry printed copies of:

• Your visa 
• Hotel confirmation or invitation letter 
• Return flight details 
• A yellow fever certificate
  

Phones die. Internet fails. Paper doesn’t.

 

Arrival Reality Check (What to Expect After Landing)

Once you arrive in Nigeria, immigration processes are usually straightforward if your documents are in order.

Officers may ask:

• Why are you visiting 
• Where you’ll be staying 
• How long do you plan to stay
  

Answer calmly and honestly. There’s no need to overexplain.

Most UK travellers report that the process feels far less intimidating than they expected.

 

Important Reminder About Changing Requirements

This matters enough to say clearly:

Travel requirements can change.

Visa rules, health protocols, and entry conditions are subject to updates. Always confirm details through:

• The Nigerian High Commission in the UK 
• Official government websites 
• Your airline
  

Do this close to your travel date, not just when you first start planning.

 

FAQs: Travelling to Nigeria from the UK

1. Do UK passport holders need a visa for Nigeria?

Yes. UK passport holders require a visa before travelling to Nigeria.

2. Can I get a visa on arrival?

Visa-on-arrival options exist mainly for business travellers under specific conditions. Most tourists should apply in advance.

3. Is the yellow fever vaccine compulsory?

Yes. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry.

4. How early should I apply for my visa?

It’s best to apply several weeks before your intended travel date to allow for processing time.

5. Can entry requirements change suddenly?

Yes. Always confirm current requirements before travelling.