Relocating from Nigeria to the United Kingdom is a major step that requires careful financial planning. Costs vary depending on the purpose of your move, whether for work, study, or family reasons, as well as personal lifestyle preferences. Understanding all the fees involved will help you avoid surprises and ensure a smooth transition. This guide breaks down the main costs you should consider before relocating.
1. Visa Application Fees
The first cost to factor in is the visa application fee. Fees vary depending on the type of visa and the length of your stay.
- Skilled Worker Visa: £625 for up to 3 years, £1,235 for up to 5 years (~₦1,271,458 – ₦2,509,000).
- Student Visa: £363 for up to 6 months, £490 for longer courses (~₦736,000 – ₦996,000).
- Family or Dependent Visa: £1,523 per person, for 2.5 years or more (~₦3,094,000).
Visa fees are paid online when submitting your application and are non-refundable.
2. Immigration Health Surcharge
All UK visa applicants staying for more than six months must pay the healthcare surcharge. This grants access to the National Health Service (NHS) and is mandatory.
- The cost is £624 per year for adults (~₦1,268,000 per year).
- Children under 18 pay £470 per year (~₦955,000 per year).
For a three-year Skilled Worker Visa, this amounts to roughly £1,872 (~₦3,805,000) for an adult applicant.
3. English Language Tests
Most visa categories require proof of English proficiency through recognized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- IELTS: £150–£250 (~₦305,000 – ₦508,000).
- TOEFL: £200–£250 (~₦406,000 – ₦508,000).
Some exemptions apply, such as holding a degree taught in English.
4. Document Certification and Translation
Applications require verified and certified documents, including academic certificates, professional qualifications, and passport copies.
- Certification costs: ₦20,000–₦100,000 per document.
- Translation services: ₦30,000–₦100,000 per page.
5. Tuberculosis Test
Certain Nigerian visa applicants must undergo a tuberculosis test before traveling.
- Typical cost: £100 (~₦203,000).
6. Flight Tickets
Airfare is a major relocation expense. Prices vary depending on airline, season, and booking time.
- One-way tickets from Lagos or Abuja to London usually cost £500–£700 (~₦1,016,000 – ₦1,423,000).
Booking early can help reduce costs.
7. Accommodation Costs
Initial accommodation in the UK can be expensive, especially in major cities like London, Manchester, or Birmingham.
- Rental Deposit: Usually 1–2 months’ rent.
- Monthly Rent: £600–£1,500 (~₦1,219,000 – ₦3,048,000) depending on location and type of property.
- Utilities: £100–£200 (~₦203,000 – ₦406,000) per month.
Shared apartments or student housing can reduce costs. Families should budget higher for space and proximity to schools.
8. Transportation
Public transport is widely used in the UK, though monthly commuting costs vary:
- London Travelcard (zones 1–3): £150–£200 (~₦305,000 – ₦406,000) per month.
- Regional cities: £70–£120 (~₦142,000 – ₦244,000) per month.
- Owning a car requires insurance, fuel, and road tax.
9. Food and Daily Living
Living costs depend on lifestyle and city:
- Groceries for a single adult: £150–£250 (~₦305,000 – ₦508,000) per month.
- Eating out once a week: £50–£100 (~₦102,000 – ₦203,000) per month.
- Household items and essentials: £50–£100 (~₦102,000 – ₦203,000) per month.
10. Miscellaneous Costs
- Bank Account Setup: Free to minimal fees.
- Mobile SIM and Internet: £20–£50 (~₦41,000 – ₦102,000) per month.
- Professional Certifications or Memberships: £50–£200 (~₦102,000 – ₦406,000).
- Contingency Fund: £500–£1,000 (~₦1,016,000 – ₦2,032,000) for unexpected expenses.
Total Estimated Costs Using Current Exchange Rate
Using the current exchange rate of 1 GBP = ₦2,032, here is a rough estimate for a Nigerian professional relocating on a Skilled Worker Visa:
| Item | Cost (GBP) | Cost (NGN) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Fee | £625 | ₦1,271,458 |
| Healthcare Surcharge | £1,872 | ₦3,804,616 |
| English Language Test | £200 | ₦406,466 |
| Document Certification | £100 | ₦203,233 |
| Tuberculosis Test | £100 | ₦203,233 |
| Flight Ticket | £500 | ₦1,016,165 |
| Accommodation Deposit + 1st Month | £1,000 | ₦2,032,330 |
| Utilities & Transport (1st Month) | £250 | ₦508,082 |
| Food & Daily Living (1st Month) | £200 | ₦406,466 |
| Miscellaneous/Contingency | £500 | ₦1,016,165 |
Total Estimate: £5,347 (~₦10,867,019)
This covers initial relocation costs. Long-term living expenses will vary by city, lifestyle, and family size.
Tips to Reduce Costs
- Look for jobs with relocation packages or employer sponsorship.
- Consider cities outside London for lower rent and living expenses.
- Share accommodation or consider student housing for initial months.
- Prepare documents in advance to avoid rush or translation fees.
- Book flights early and compare airlines for deals.
Conclusion
Relocating from Nigeria to the UK involves multiple costs, from visa and healthcare fees to flights and accommodation. By budgeting carefully and using current exchange rates, Nigerians can plan a financially smooth move. Proper preparation ensures your relocation is achievable, sustainable, and less stressful.