Big immigration updates are coming, and Nigerians in the UK (and those planning to relocate) should pay close attention.

The UK Home Office has confirmed two major changes that will affect work visa applicants and visa-free travellers entering the UK in 2026.

1) UK Work Visas: English Requirement Increased to B2 (From January 8, 2026)

According to a Home Office update reported by law firm Birketts, the UK is increasing the English language requirement for certain work visa routes.

✅ What’s changing?

From 8 January 2026, first-time applicants applying through the following visa routes must meet English level B2 (Common European Framework of Reference – CEFR):

• Skilled Worker visa
• Scale-up visa
• High Potential Individual (HPI) visa

This is one level higher than the previous requirement (B1).

🇳🇬 What this means for Nigerians applying from the UK or Nigeria

If you’re a Nigerian graduate, professional, or job seeker preparing for UK sponsorship, this update means:

• You may need to retake your English test if your previous result was only B1
• You must book a UK-approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) that matches the new standard
• Your employer or sponsor may ask for proof of B2 English before proceeding with your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

⚠️ Who is NOT affected?

If you’re already in the UK on a valid visa, this change is expected to apply mainly to new/first-time applicants. Current visa holders are generally not affected by the new rule.

2) UK ETA Becomes Fully Mandatory (From February 25, 2026)

The UK also confirmed that the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will become fully mandatory from 25 February 2026.

What is ETA?

The ETA is a digital travel permission that certain visitors must get before travelling to the UK, even if they do not need a visa.

Who needs it?

Citizens of 85 visa-waiver countries will need an ETA, including:

• United States
• Canada
• Australia
• Most EU countries

💷 ETA cost

The ETA will cost £16.

Important travel warning

Airlines, ferry operators, and Eurostar services can face penalties if they allow passengers to travel without an ETA. That means travellers may be denied boarding if they don’t have it.

How long does it take?

The Home Office recommends applying at least 3 working days before travel, although many approvals may come through within minutes.

Why This Matters to Nigerians in the UK

Even though Nigerians typically need visas to enter the UK, these changes still affect our community in major ways:

✅ If you’re job hunting with visa sponsorship

The new B2 English requirement may make it harder for some applicants to qualify quickly—especially those who were planning to apply with B1.

✅ If your employer recruits globally

Companies sponsoring Nigerians will need to:

• Confirm B2 English evidence
• Ensure candidates book the right SELT test
• Plan onboarding timelines better

✅ If you travel with colleagues or family from visa-free countries

If your spouse, business partner, or friend is travelling from the US, Canada, or EU to visit you in the UK, they may need an ETA from February 2026.

Even some travellers transiting through the UK (depending on passport control rules) may also require ETA.

What Nigerians Should Do Now (Smart Preparation Tips)

Here’s what we recommend at Naija UK Connect:

📌 1) Start preparing for B2 English early

If you’re planning to apply for a Skilled Worker visa in 2026:

• Aim for B2 level now
• Consider English prep classes if needed
• Book your test early to avoid delays

📌 2) Confirm your test is a UK-approved SELT

Not all English tests are accepted. Make sure your exam is a Secure English Language Test (SELT) approved for UK visas.

📌 3) Employers should update hiring processes

If you run a business or work in HR/recruitment, ensure:

• Job candidates understand the new B2 rule
• Your onboarding timeline includes time for testing
• Your internal visa checklist is updated

📌 4) Travellers should add ETA checks to travel plans

If you have international colleagues or visitors:

• Remind them ETA becomes mandatory in Feb 2026
• Encourage early application to avoid boarding issues

Final Thoughts

These updates are part of the UK’s wider plan to build a fully digital and security-focused border system by 2027.

For Nigerians in the UK, the key takeaway is simple:

✅ If you want UK visa sponsorship in 2026, start planning for B2 English now.
✅ If you travel or host visitors, ETA rules may affect their entry into the UK.

Stay informed and ahead of the changes.

— Naija UK Connect 🇳🇬🇬🇧

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