UK Sees 2,225% Surge in Nigerians Applying for Global Talent Visa

Naija creatives are making waves—big time. But what does it really mean?

In what can only be described as a Japa-powered creative wave, the UK has seen a 2,225% increase in Nigerians applying for the Global Talent Visa, jumping from just 12 applicants in 2019 to 279 in 2024.

This data, reported by The Telegraph, shines a spotlight on a growing trend: Nigerian creatives are boldly stepping onto the global stage—and making the UK one of their prime destinations.

🎨🖋️ Why Are Nigerians Rushing for the Global Talent Visa?

The Global Talent Visa is designed for exceptional individuals in fields like:

• Literature (authors, poets, spoken word artists, graphic novelists)

• Music

• Film and TV

• Art and design

It allows successful applicants to:

• Stay in the UK for up to five years

• Bring their family members

• Work without sponsorship

• Apply for permanent residency earlier than most visa routes

📈 The Numbers Don’t Lie

Since 2019:

• 727 Nigerians have applied under the Global Talent route.

• That’s second only to the United States (977 applications).

• It’s also more than double the number of applicants from the US in literature alone!

• 125 Nigerian applications were in the literature category—beating the US (61), and more than the combined total of Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

🎭 Approval & Rejection: Mixed Bag

• 59% of Nigerian applications get approved.

• That’s higher than Ghana, but lower than Russia (725 apps) and China (492 apps).

• So far, 54 Nigerian applicants have been endorsed by Arts Council England—the UK body responsible for vetting arts-related applications.

• That endorsement rate puts Nigeria at the top of the list globally in that category.

📣 New Update: Nigerians Will Receive E-Visas Instead of Passport Stickers

Starting soon, Nigerian applicants to the UK will receive electronic visas (e-visas) instead of traditional visa vignettes (stickers in your passport). This shift is part of a wider UK government move to digitise immigration processes.

🗣️ What Are People Saying?

Some UK policymakers have expressed concern over the rising numbers and are calling for a review of the system. Critics suggest the influx—both legal and illegal—is putting pressure on the immigration system.

However, many argue that African talent, particularly from Nigeria, is underappreciated and underutilised, and that global platforms like this visa scheme should remain open to exceptional creatives—regardless of origin.

As Adewoye said in a recent piece:

“Global employers should trust and embrace African talent—our stories and skills have global value.”

💡 What This Means for Naija Creatives in the UK

This trend is a clear signal: Nigerian talent is being noticed. If you’re a creative in the UK or planning to move, this could be your time to:

• Build your portfolio

• Get noticed by UK-based organisations

• Apply strategically with endorsements from recognised UK arts bodies

But be prepared: the process is competitive, and approvals are not guaranteed. Work on your craft, network intentionally, and align with platforms that can help boost your visibility.

✊ Naija to the World!

Whether you’re a spoken word artist in London, a fashion designer in Manchester, or a screenwriter in Birmingham, the message is clear: there’s space at the table—but excellence is the key.