Top 7 Tips For a Successful UK Visa Application

If you are considering applying for a UK visa for the first time and are eager to learn from the triumphs and setbacks of fellow applicants, then you have come to the right place! In this article, I will summarize the UK visa application process and share the processing timeline from my most recent application.

In addition, I will share some tips, based on my personal experiences and those of others, to give you more insights into what is needed to improve your chances of success.

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Is It Easy To Get a UK Visa?

For Nigerian passport holders, the UK visa is infamous for being one of the toughest to obtain. But don’t let that discourage you from thinking the process itself is a nightmare. It’s quite the opposite – it’s one of the simpler ones out there. The steps are laid out clearly and thoroughly on the official Gov.UK website, making it easy to follow along.

The documentation requirements are standard and do not include uncommon requests often seen with other embassies, such as the NDLEA certificate – a particularly troublesome document to obtain. The true challenge, however, lies in the meticulous examination of each application, where visa officers may identify grounds for rejection.

London Travel

Upon rejection, applicants typically receive a document detailing the reasons for the denial. After reviewing numerous such documents and their stated reasons, I have compiled this article to address the most frequent grounds for rejection. It also includes potential strategies to mitigate these issues in your application, as well as general advice to improve your chances of success.

But first, let’s talk about the process of applying for a UK visa as a Nigerian passport holder.

UK Visa application for Nigerian citizens | How Long Does It Take for UK Visa To Be Approved?

How to Apply for a UK Visa

I have already written a very detailed post about how to apply for a UK visa from Nigeria. You can read that here, but in summary, all you need to do is;

  • Visit the Gov.UK website
  • Select your visa category
  • Fill out the application form on the website
  • Pay the required fees
  • Book your appointment via TLSContact
  • Attend your appointment for Biometrics Capture
  • Wait for the decision to be made, track the progress and pick up your passport.

Pretty straightforward right?

How Long Does It Take for UK Visa To Be Approved?

The standard processing time for a UK tourist visa is 15 working days, but it may take less or more time depending on individual circumstances. If processing exceeds 15 working days, you will typically receive a notification letter. Expedited visa services are also available for an additional fee.

Here’s the timeline for my most recent UK standard visitors visa application.

Cardiff Central

My Recent UK Visa Application Processing Timeline

Working DaysStatusDate
Day 01Biometric Enrollment Done05 September
Day 01Application Transferred To DMC05 September
Day 02Application Received by DMC – as shown in the tracker06 September
Day 04Application Received By DMC – email from PTA.VisaEnquiries10 September
Day 07Application Transferred To VAC13 September
Day 07Application Received By VAC13 September
Day 07Passport Picked By Applicant13 September

Now that we’ve talked about the application process and processing timelines, let’s look into the top reasons for a UK visa rejection.

Top 7 Reasons for UK Visa Rejection and How to Address Them

Here’s an overview of common reasons for UK visa rejections. Please note that I am not a legal expert or authority on this matter. Ultimately, the decision to approve or reject a visa application rests solely with the visa officer.

  1. Incomplete or inaccurate visa application form
  2. Insufficient funds
  3. Irregular fund transfers
  4. Lack of strong ties to one’s home country
  5. Lack of strong travel history
  6. Insufficient evidence of trip purpose
  7. Criminal record
Bute Park Cardiff Wales

If you’ve reached this part of the blog post, I recommend reading the following articles for deeper insights into visa applications, particularly for Nigerian citizens:

Now, let’s get into more details for each reason:

Reason #1: Incomplete or inaccurate visa application form

Errors, omissions, or inconsistencies in your application can lead to rejection. I recommend double-checking all information before submission.

London Tower Bridge

You must fill out these forms correctly, completely and honestly. The UK visa form does take some time to complete, so be prepared to set aside a few hours to gather all necessary documents and information.

Reason #2: Insufficient funds

You must demonstrate that you can support yourself financially during your stay in the UK. It is important to include your bank statements and proof of finances, even if your trip is being sponsored by another party.

For adult applicants, I suggest waiting to submit your application until you have a stable financial situation that meets the visa requirements. This approach often leads to a stronger application and better outcomes.

Reason #3: Irregular fund transfers

In the same vein, unexplained large deposits may be a reason for rejection. You should ensure all financial transactions are legitimate and well-documented.

Naira costs

I recommend including a cover letter to explain any unusual transactions. You can find a sample template here.

Reason #4: Lack of strong ties to one’s home country

The UK Home Office seeks assurance of your intent to return after your visit. Strong home ties, evidenced by employment, property ownership, or family commitments, are crucial. However, these days, applications require a more deliberate presentation of these ties.

For example, in the current Nigerian context, employment alone is often insufficient to demonstrate home-country ties. To enhance your application:

  1. Secure a well-paying job as a baseline. Before applying, convert your monthly earnings or savings using the Oanda currency converter. This figure should fall within a good range
  2. Ensure your trip budget is reasonable, typically not exceeding twice your monthly disposable income. But of course, this guideline is context-dependent:
  • For example, spending 3-4 times your monthly disposable income on a brief UK holiday without other connections may raise concerns.
  • The same amount for a career-advancing course or a family milestone event could be justifiable.
  • A visit to see a friend, while understandable, may prompt questions about your intention to return.
Cardiff Townhouse

Context is key. Tailor your application to demonstrate both your reasons for visiting and your motivations to return home.

Reason #5: Lack of strong travel history

Previous international travel, especially to more developed countries, can strengthen your application. I have written a post about how to build a strong travel history as a Nigerian citizen. You can find more details here.

Reason #6: Insufficient evidence of trip purpose

You should clearly explain and document the reason for your visit. This could include invitation letters, conference registrations, or detailed travel itineraries.

Reason #7: Criminal record

Lastly, past convictions, especially for serious crimes, can significantly impact your visa application. You should disclose any criminal history honestly.

And that’s it! Let me know if you have any questions about applying for a UK tourist visa in the comment section below! And if you have found this post helpful, please share it with your network! Happy Travels!


Enjoyed this post?

  • Aesthetically pleasing spaces in Kenya 🍂🦒
  • Kenya had dropped the paid ETA requirement for most Africans, including Nigerians. 💃🏾🎉

And in celebration of that, I'm sharing some of my favourite places to include in your Kenyan holiday itinerary!

Will you be visiting or have you been to any of these places?
  • This lodge in Taita-Taveta was such a great last-minute find for me!
___________________

I needed a quick break from Nairobi and thought to visit Diani and Tsavo. While finding accommodation in Diani was fairly easy, I struggled to find a place that fit my schedule, budget, and preference in the Voi/Tsavo area.

When I stumbled upon The Hildana Lodge, I couldn't be happier. Luckily, they had availability for the exact dates I wanted, a resident's rate, and no single supplement!

I stayed here for 2 nights but could have easily stayed longer! This place is magical, and I can't wait to return! ✨️
  • As someone who enjoys travelling and pursuing a fulfilling career, I don't believe that you have to give up one for the other. ✈️🍂✨️

You can maintain a healthy travel life without forfeiting a career you love, and here's one of the best ways to do so ⤵️

Taking advantage of public holidays, combined with your vacation days. For example, there's a public holiday coming up next month.

It'll be a 2-day holiday, and if you take only 2 days off work, you'll get 6 vacation days! - perfect for this "Beach and Bush" holiday in Kenya! 🐚🐘🌊

Work-life balance is key, so find ways to do the things that are important to you now that you can!💙
  • Weekends in Kenya that look like this! 🐘💙🦒

How wonderful!
  • Here's what you can expect when you ride the premium class train from Nairobi to Mombasa and vice versa 🚅

It's a slow but scenic ride to the coast, but I love it and rather prefer it to flying. ✨️

PS: If you want great views of Tsavo National Park as you pass through (Nairobi > Mombasa), sit on the left side of the train (i.e., even numbered seats)

But be aware that some seats have partial window views. Seats 26, 21, 25, 15, and 6 are great!(Nairobi > Mombasa)

Seat on the opposite side on the Mombasa > Nairobi train. I couldn't keep track of all the good seats on this train 🥹.

The train also has a first and economy class coach, which are significantly cheaper than premium class. And once you're back in Nairobi, all "premium services end" 🤭😋

Have you gone on this train before? What was your experience like? 💬

Are team train 🚆 or flight ✈️?
Aesthetically pleasing spaces in Kenya 🍂🦒
17 hours ago
View on Instagram |
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Kenya had dropped the paid ETA requirement for most Africans, including Nigerians. 💃🏾🎉 And in celebration of that, I'm sharing some of my favourite places to include in your Kenyan holiday itinerary! Will you be visiting or have you been to any of these places?
1 day ago
View on Instagram |
2/6
This lodge in Taita-Taveta was such a great last-minute find for me! ___________________ I needed a quick break from Nairobi and thought to visit Diani and Tsavo. While finding accommodation in Diani was fairly easy, I struggled to find a place that fit my schedule, budget, and preference in the Voi/Tsavo area. When I stumbled upon The Hildana Lodge, I couldn't be happier. Luckily, they had availability for the exact dates I wanted, a resident's rate, and no single supplement! I stayed here for 2 nights but could have easily stayed longer! This place is magical, and I can't wait to return! ✨️
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
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As someone who enjoys travelling and pursuing a fulfilling career, I don't believe that you have to give up one for the other. ✈️🍂✨️ You can maintain a healthy travel life without forfeiting a career you love, and here's one of the best ways to do so ⤵️ Taking advantage of public holidays, combined with your vacation days. For example, there's a public holiday coming up next month. It'll be a 2-day holiday, and if you take only 2 days off work, you'll get 6 vacation days! - perfect for this "Beach and Bush" holiday in Kenya! 🐚🐘🌊 Work-life balance is key, so find ways to do the things that are important to you now that you can!💙
4 days ago
View on Instagram |
4/6
Weekends in Kenya that look like this! 🐘💙🦒 How wonderful!
4 days ago
View on Instagram |
5/6
Here's what you can expect when you ride the premium class train from Nairobi to Mombasa and vice versa 🚅 It's a slow but scenic ride to the coast, but I love it and rather prefer it to flying. ✨️ PS: If you want great views of Tsavo National Park as you pass through (Nairobi > Mombasa), sit on the left side of the train (i.e., even numbered seats) But be aware that some seats have partial window views. Seats 26, 21, 25, 15, and 6 are great!(Nairobi > Mombasa) Seat on the opposite side on the Mombasa > Nairobi train. I couldn't keep track of all the good seats on this train 🥹. The train also has a first and economy class coach, which are significantly cheaper than premium class. And once you're back in Nairobi, all "premium services end" 🤭😋 Have you gone on this train before? What was your experience like? 💬 Are team train 🚆 or flight ✈️?
6 days ago
View on Instagram |
6/6

Help fuel more adventures and insights! ☕️ Treat me to a virtual coffee, explore my Instagram for behind-the-scenes peeks, or simply share this post with a fellow traveller. Your support keeps this wanderlust-filled blog thriving! 🌍✈️

4 comments

  1. This is such a brilliant post, and I love your beautifully captured photos – I wouldn’t mind travelling to the UK now when the autumn is in full swing! From my own experience in obtaining a visa, I can say that meeting the visa requirements, providing accurate documentation, and demonstrating genuine visitor intent will enhance the chances of approval. Thanks for sharing, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

    1. Thank you, Aiva. You’re absolutely right. Success often comes down to three key elements: meeting all requirements precisely, providing thorough documentation, and demonstrating sincere intentions. While the process may be rigorous, taking the time to perfect each aspect of the application will maximize your chances of approval. Thanks again for your comment and hope you have a great day too!

  2. An excellent guide Amarachi! Funnily enough we are going through Sladja’s second visitor’s visa application now and even with her family ties it is a veritable minefield.

    1. Thanks, Leighton! I really feel you on the “minefield” description – that’s such an accurate way to put it. I hope Sladja’s application goes smoothly and you can both enjoy visiting family in the UK.

I love to hear from you, Leave a comment here!

Close
Aesthetically pleasing spaces in Kenya 🍂🦒
Aesthetically pleasing spaces in Kenya 🍂🦒
17 hours ago
View on Instagram |
1/9
Kenya had dropped the paid ETA requirement for most Africans, including Nigerians. 💃🏾🎉

And in celebration of that, I'm sharing some of my favourite places to include in your Kenyan holiday itinerary!

Will you be visiting or have you been to any of these places?
Kenya had dropped the paid ETA requirement for most Africans, including Nigerians. 💃🏾🎉 And in celebration of that, I'm sharing some of my favourite places to include in your Kenyan holiday itinerary! Will you be visiting or have you been to any of these places?
1 day ago
View on Instagram |
2/9
This lodge in Taita-Taveta was such a great last-minute find for me!
___________________

I needed a quick break from Nairobi and thought to visit Diani and Tsavo. While finding accommodation in Diani was fairly easy, I struggled to find a place that fit my schedule, budget, and preference in the Voi/Tsavo area.

When I stumbled upon The Hildana Lodge, I couldn't be happier. Luckily, they had availability for the exact dates I wanted, a resident's rate, and no single supplement!

I stayed here for 2 nights but could have easily stayed longer! This place is magical, and I can't wait to return! ✨️
This lodge in Taita-Taveta was such a great last-minute find for me! ___________________ I needed a quick break from Nairobi and thought to visit Diani and Tsavo. While finding accommodation in Diani was fairly easy, I struggled to find a place that fit my schedule, budget, and preference in the Voi/Tsavo area. When I stumbled upon The Hildana Lodge, I couldn't be happier. Luckily, they had availability for the exact dates I wanted, a resident's rate, and no single supplement! I stayed here for 2 nights but could have easily stayed longer! This place is magical, and I can't wait to return! ✨️
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
3/9
As someone who enjoys travelling and pursuing a fulfilling career, I don't believe that you have to give up one for the other. ✈️🍂✨️

You can maintain a healthy travel life without forfeiting a career you love, and here's one of the best ways to do so ⤵️

Taking advantage of public holidays, combined with your vacation days. For example, there's a public holiday coming up next month.

It'll be a 2-day holiday, and if you take only 2 days off work, you'll get 6 vacation days! - perfect for this "Beach and Bush" holiday in Kenya! 🐚🐘🌊

Work-life balance is key, so find ways to do the things that are important to you now that you can!💙
As someone who enjoys travelling and pursuing a fulfilling career, I don't believe that you have to give up one for the other. ✈️🍂✨️ You can maintain a healthy travel life without forfeiting a career you love, and here's one of the best ways to do so ⤵️ Taking advantage of public holidays, combined with your vacation days. For example, there's a public holiday coming up next month. It'll be a 2-day holiday, and if you take only 2 days off work, you'll get 6 vacation days! - perfect for this "Beach and Bush" holiday in Kenya! 🐚🐘🌊 Work-life balance is key, so find ways to do the things that are important to you now that you can!💙
4 days ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
Weekends in Kenya that look like this! 🐘💙🦒

How wonderful!
Weekends in Kenya that look like this! 🐘💙🦒 How wonderful!
4 days ago
View on Instagram |
5/9
Here's what you can expect when you ride the premium class train from Nairobi to Mombasa and vice versa 🚅

It's a slow but scenic ride to the coast, but I love it and rather prefer it to flying. ✨️

PS: If you want great views of Tsavo National Park as you pass through (Nairobi > Mombasa), sit on the left side of the train (i.e., even numbered seats)

But be aware that some seats have partial window views. Seats 26, 21, 25, 15, and 6 are great!(Nairobi > Mombasa)

Seat on the opposite side on the Mombasa > Nairobi train. I couldn't keep track of all the good seats on this train 🥹.

The train also has a first and economy class coach, which are significantly cheaper than premium class. And once you're back in Nairobi, all "premium services end" 🤭😋

Have you gone on this train before? What was your experience like? 💬

Are team train 🚆 or flight ✈️?
Here's what you can expect when you ride the premium class train from Nairobi to Mombasa and vice versa 🚅 It's a slow but scenic ride to the coast, but I love it and rather prefer it to flying. ✨️ PS: If you want great views of Tsavo National Park as you pass through (Nairobi > Mombasa), sit on the left side of the train (i.e., even numbered seats) But be aware that some seats have partial window views. Seats 26, 21, 25, 15, and 6 are great!(Nairobi > Mombasa) Seat on the opposite side on the Mombasa > Nairobi train. I couldn't keep track of all the good seats on this train 🥹. The train also has a first and economy class coach, which are significantly cheaper than premium class. And once you're back in Nairobi, all "premium services end" 🤭😋 Have you gone on this train before? What was your experience like? 💬 Are team train 🚆 or flight ✈️?
6 days ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
The most relaxing staycation ever! Coastal vibes in Diani Beach and a wonderful safari in Taita-Taveta county! 🐚🐘

This trip was so easy to plan and embark upon from Nairobi. I travelled by rail from Nairobi to Mombasa and then to Diani. 🌊

On my return leg, I stopped in Voi and transferred to a super gorgeous lodge, where I spent the weekend enjoying massages, spotting elephants 🐘 and giraffes 🦒, and just having a swell and relaxing time!

Sharing details on my blog and IG stories!✨️
The most relaxing staycation ever! Coastal vibes in Diani Beach and a wonderful safari in Taita-Taveta county! 🐚🐘 This trip was so easy to plan and embark upon from Nairobi. I travelled by rail from Nairobi to Mombasa and then to Diani. 🌊 On my return leg, I stopped in Voi and transferred to a super gorgeous lodge, where I spent the weekend enjoying massages, spotting elephants 🐘 and giraffes 🦒, and just having a swell and relaxing time! Sharing details on my blog and IG stories!✨️
6 days ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
The Best of Both Worlds! 🥰

Just took the SGR again, and I got to try out the Premium Class coach - I loved the experience!

I'll be sharing all about this experience in my next blog post on www.travelwithapen.com -  what to expect from this train ride, the best seats for unobstructed views and elephant sightings in Tsavo National Park, and notable changes in the journey from Nairobi to Mombasa and Diani!

#diani #dianibeachkenya #sgr #railtravel #tsavo #tembeakenya
The Best of Both Worlds! 🥰 Just took the SGR again, and I got to try out the Premium Class coach - I loved the experience! I'll be sharing all about this experience in my next blog post on www.travelwithapen.com - what to expect from this train ride, the best seats for unobstructed views and elephant sightings in Tsavo National Park, and notable changes in the journey from Nairobi to Mombasa and Diani! #diani #dianibeachkenya #sgr #railtravel #tsavo #tembeakenya
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
8/9
Bougainvillea in full bloom in Nairobi 🌸, always a highlight of our strolls!
Bougainvillea in full bloom in Nairobi 🌸, always a highlight of our strolls!
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
9/9
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