BRITAIN RAISES VISA CHARGES FOR NIGERIANS, FOREIGN STUDENTS, AND PROFESSIONALS
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The United Kingdom has revised its visa tariffs, increasing costs for Nigerians, alongside other overseas scholars, visitors, and job seekers. This adjustment imposes a greater financial strain on individuals aspiring to gain entry into the country.
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As outlined by British immigration authorities, the fee for an academic visa has climbed from £363 to £490, reflecting a 35% surge.
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Similarly, the charge for a short-term tourist pass has been elevated from £100 to £115, while several other categories, including employment and family-related permits, have also been altered.
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Justifying the revision, officials argued that the adjustment was imperative to uphold the country’s border management framework and sustain remuneration for government employees.
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“It is appropriate and justifiable to modify visa tariffs so that those benefiting from the migration structure contribute to its upkeep,” the authorities affirmed.
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For numerous Nigerian learners already grappling with high tuition and living expenditures in Britain, this policy shift introduces another layer of economic difficulty.
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“This rise will create additional obstacles for students who are already struggling to meet the financial demands of their education,” an academic advisor remarked.
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A postgraduate applicant, Tunde Ajayi, expressed similar apprehensions while speaking with *Daily Trust*, stating, “I have been putting aside funds for my studies, but with this unexpected increase, I may need to reconsider my decision.”
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Although the UK continues to be a favored destination for Nigerian scholars and tourists, analysts predict that the heightened charges may result in a reduction in applications, particularly from individuals facing financial constraints.
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Despite the concerns, British authorities maintain that these changes are essential. “The revised rates will help ensure that the immigration structure remains efficient and self-sustaining,” officials reiterated.
