Visa Rejections Cost Nigerians ₦75 Billion Annually from Canada, UK, US and Schengen Countries which is among the top Ranked. Nigerians Lose ₦75 Billion Yearly to Visa Fees and Rejections; Countries with Highest Refusal Rates. Nigerians are estimated to lose approximately ₦75 billion every year through visa application fees, rejected applications and other expenses associated with attempts to travel abroad, according to a visa-cost analysis report obtained by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The report, published in November 2026, highlights the growing financial burden on Nigerians seeking international travel opportunities for education, tourism, employment, business, family visits and other purposes.
One of its most significant findings is that unsuccessful applications for Schengen visas alone cost Nigerian applicants an estimated €11.5 million, equivalent to approximately ₦19 billion, in 2025.
The figures expose the financial consequences of applying for international visas in a system where applicants must pay substantial fees before knowing whether their applications will be approved.
For many Nigerians, the financial commitment goes beyond the official visa charge. Applicants may also spend money on visa application centre services, medical insurance, flight reservations, hotel bookings, translations, document preparation and other supporting requirements.
When an application is rejected, most of these expenses cannot be recovered.
The report identifies Canada, Belgium, Spain, France, the United Kingdom and the United States among the destinations presenting significant financial risks to Nigerian applicants because of their reported refusal rates and application costs.
It also examines the rising cost of Japanese visas and compares the expenses associated with destinations such as India, Indonesia and Malaysia.
For Nigerian students planning to study abroad, tourists preparing international holidays and families hoping to visit relatives overseas, the findings provide an important reason to understand visa requirements before committing money to an application.
How Nigerians lose ₦75 billion annually to visa applications
According to the report obtained by Sunday Punch from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigerians lose an estimated ₦75 billion annually through visa application expenses.
The financial losses are associated with three major factors:
- Non-refundable visa application fees.
- High rejection rates for applications submitted to certain countries.
- Additional expenses incurred while preparing and submitting visa applications.
Unlike some other administrative services, visa application fees are generally paid before the immigration authority makes its decision.
This means applicants can spend hundreds of thousands of naira preparing for international travel and still receive a refusal without recovering the money paid.
The report estimates that an unsuccessful application can cost an individual between ₦350,000 and ₦1.2 million, depending on the destination, visa category and supporting services required. These expenses can become particularly damaging for applicants who submit multiple applications within a short period.
For example, a Nigerian who applies for a UK visitor visa, pays for supporting documentation, purchases travel-related services and subsequently receives a refusal may lose a substantial amount without travelling.
The situation is even more challenging for students who spend money on international university applications, admission-related expenses, document verification and study permit applications before receiving a negative immigration decision.
The report therefore raises questions about the affordability of international mobility for Nigerians, particularly those who are not financially prepared to absorb the cost of unsuccessful applications. Blueprint Newspapers Limited+1
Schengen visa applications cost Nigerians approximately ₦19 billion in 2025
The Schengen Area is one of the most expensive and challenging visa destinations identified in the report.
Nigerian applicants reportedly lost approximately €11.5 million, equivalent to ₦19 billion, through unsuccessful Schengen visa applications in 2025.
The overall Schengen visa refusal rate for Nigerians reached 46.9% in 2025, compared with 45.9% in 2024.
Approximately 250,000 applications submitted by Nigerians were reportedly unsuccessful during the year.
This means that almost one out of every two Nigerian applicants did not receive the requested Schengen visa during the reporting period.
The financial implications are considerable because applicants must pay the visa fee even when the application is refused.
The Schengen visa allows eligible travellers to visit participating European countries for short stays, generally up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
It is commonly used for tourism, family visits, business activities and other permitted short-term travel.
The standard Schengen visa fee for adults is €90, while additional charges may apply when applications are submitted through external visa application centres.
The report estimates that the combined visa and application-centre charges can reach approximately ₦144,000, depending on the exchange rates and service charges used in its calculations. Report+1
Countries with the highest reported Schengen visa refusal rates for Nigerians
The report identifies Belgium, Spain and France as countries with particularly high Schengen visa refusal rates among Nigerian applicants.
| Schengen country | Reported Nigerian refusal rate | Approximate approval rate |
|---|---|---|
| Belgium | 60.3% | 39.7% |
| Spain | 52.7% | 47.3% |
| France | 47.4% | 52.6% |
| Schengen Area overall | 46.9% | 53.1% |
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa-cost analysis as reported by Sunday Punch and Blueprint. Approval rates are calculated as 100% minus the reported refusal rates.
Belgium: 60.3% refusal rate
Belgium recorded the highest refusal rate among the three countries identified in the report.
With a reported rejection rate of 60.3%, approximately six out of every ten Nigerian applications were unsuccessful.
This makes Belgium a particularly important destination for Nigerians to approach carefully when preparing a short-stay visa application.
Applicants intending to visit Belgium should pay particular attention to their travel purpose, accommodation arrangements, financial evidence, travel history and supporting documents.
Spain: 52.7% refusal rate
Spain recorded a reported refusal rate of 52.7%.
This means that more than half of the applications from Nigerians were unsuccessful according to the report.
Nigerians planning holidays, family visits or business trips to Spain should ensure that their application documents accurately explain the purpose and duration of their proposed visit.
France: 47.4% refusal rate
France recorded a reported refusal rate of 47.4%.
Although this is lower than the figures reported for Belgium and Spain, it still represents a considerable risk for Nigerian applicants.
Applicants should ensure that their financial circumstances, accommodation arrangements and travel plans are consistent with the information provided in their application.
Important: These figures are historical, nationality-specific statistics reported for 2025. They do not mean that an individual Nigerian applicant has a corresponding personal probability of rejection. Visa decisions depend on the applicant’s circumstances, application category and supporting evidence.
Canada rejected 75% of Nigerian study permit applications between January and April 2026
Canada is another major destination where Nigerian applicants face significant visa challenges, particularly those seeking study permits.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs report cited an estimated 75% refusal rate for Nigerian study permit applications between January and April 2026.
If the figure is accurate, it means that only about one in four Nigerian applicants received approval during the period.
The report attributed the high rejection rate largely to immigration officers’ concerns about whether applicants would leave Canada after completing their studies.
This is an important consideration under Canada’s immigration regulations.
Under Section 216(1)(b) of Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, a study permit applicant must satisfy an officer that they will leave Canada by the end of their authorised stay, unless they obtain permission to remain under another immigration category.
This requirement does not mean applicants must abandon legitimate plans to pursue permanent residence through an eligible immigration pathway. However, they must demonstrate that they meet the temporary resident requirements applicable to their application.
Why Nigerian students may face Canadian study permit refusals
Some of the issues that can contribute to unsuccessful study permit applications include:
- Weak financial evidence: Applicants may fail to demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses and other costs.
- Unconvincing study plans: The proposed programme may not have a clear connection with the applicant’s previous education or career objectives.
- Unclear source of funds: Large deposits, unexplained transactions or inconsistent financial records can raise concerns.
- Doubts about temporary residence: The applicant may not sufficiently demonstrate that they meet the conditions for temporary entry.
- Questionable academic progression: An applicant’s choice of programme may appear inconsistent with their previous qualifications or professional background.
- Incomplete documentation: Missing or contradictory documents can affect the assessment.
These are possible application weaknesses, not an official list of reasons responsible for every Nigerian refusal.
What prospective Nigerian students should do before applying
Students should take a more careful approach before committing money to Canadian university admission and study permit applications.
They should:
- Select a programme that makes academic and professional sense.
- Confirm that the institution and programme are eligible under Canada’s international student rules.
- Prepare a credible explanation of their study objectives.
- Demonstrate sufficient and verifiable financial resources.
- Explain the source of tuition and living-expense funds.
- Provide accurate academic and employment records.
- Review previous visa refusals and address the specific concerns raised.
It is also important to distinguish the 75% figure in the Ministry report from Canada’s overall study permit refusal statistics.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reported a 59% refusal rate for new study permit applications worldwide between January and December 2025. Its published figures also showed a 62% overall refusal rate for new study permit applications as of January 31, 2026. These are broader figures and should not be confused with the report’s Nigeria-specific estimate. Report+1
Official information: Canada study permit requirements.
UK visa refusals cost Nigerian applicants more money
The United Kingdom also features prominently in the report’s assessment of visa-related financial losses.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs analysis, the UK recorded an overall visa refusal rate of 33.1% for Nigerian applicants in 2025.
The figure reportedly increased to 35.4% in the first quarter of 2026.
For visitor visa applications, the reported refusal rate was even higher, at 38.6%.
The report also claimed that Nigerians accounted for 44.4% of all African visa refusals by the UK, citing a cumulative figure of approximately 1.34 million refusals over 21 years.
These figures underline the challenges faced by Nigerians applying to visit Britain for tourism, family visits, business, short-term study and other permitted activities.
How much does a UK visitor visa cost?
The UK charges different application fees depending on the validity period requested.
The Home Office’s revised fees effective April 8, 2026, include:
| UK visitor visa category | Official application fee |
|---|---|
| Standard Visitor visa, up to six months | £135 |
| Long-term visitor visa, up to two years | £506 |
| Long-term visitor visa, up to five years | £903 |
| Long-term visitor visa, up to 10 years | £1,128 |
GOV.UK+1
The Ministry report used an estimate of approximately ₦203,000 for a six-month visitor visa and ₦2.09 million for a 10-year visitor visa.
However, the six-month figure reflects the previous £127 fee. The current official fee is £135, so applicants should use the updated amount when preparing their budgets.
The naira equivalent will depend on the exchange rate and the payment conversion applied at the time of application.
What Nigerians should know before applying for a UK visa
The UK visitor visa is intended for temporary visits. Applicants must demonstrate that their proposed activities are permitted and that they meet the visitor eligibility requirements.
Important considerations include:
- A genuine and clearly explained reason for travelling.
- Sufficient funds for the proposed visit.
- Appropriate accommodation arrangements.
- Evidence that the applicant can pay for the trip or has a genuine sponsor.
- A credible explanation of their personal, family, professional or financial circumstances.
- A clear intention to leave the UK at the end of the permitted visit.
For Nigerian students, it is important to apply for the correct immigration category. A visitor visa cannot replace a Student visa for a regular long-term degree programme.
Official information: UK Standard Visitor visa requirements.
United States F-1 student visa refusals present another challenge
The United States is another destination where international students from Africa face significant visa challenges.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs report cited an estimated refusal rate of approximately 64% for African applicants seeking F-1 student visas, compared with a global refusal rate of about 35%.
These figures relate to African applicants, not Nigerians alone.
The F-1 visa is issued to eligible international students who intend to pursue full-time academic studies at authorised US educational institutions.
Applicants must generally receive admission from an institution authorised to enrol international students before beginning the visa application process.
Why F-1 visa applications may be refused
Under Section 214(b) of the US Immigration and Nationality Act, most nonimmigrant visa applicants are presumed to be intending immigrants until they establish their eligibility for the temporary visa they are seeking.
For student visa applicants, this can involve questions about:
- Their academic objectives.
- Their ability to finance their education.
- Their choice of institution and programme.
- Their understanding of the course.
- Their plans after completing their studies.
- Their eligibility under the relevant nonimmigrant visa requirements.
An applicant may receive a refusal if the consular officer is not satisfied that the applicant has established eligibility.
US F-1 visa application fee
The standard non-refundable application fee for an F-1 student visa is generally $185, excluding the separate SEVIS I-901 fee and any other applicable expenses.
The Ministry report also identified the B1/B2 visitor visa application fee at approximately $185, equivalent to about ₦299,700 using the exchange rate in its analysis.
Applicants should remember that admission into a US university does not guarantee visa approval.
Official information:
Japan increases visa charges fivefold for Nigerian applicants
Japan is another destination highlighted in the report, particularly because of a significant increase in visa application charges.
According to the report, Japan increased its visa fees fivefold from July 1, 2026.
The reported new charges are:
| Japanese visa category | Reported fee |
|---|---|
| Single-entry visa | ¥15,000 |
| Multiple-entry visa | ¥30,000 |
| Previous single-entry fee | ¥3,000 |
| Previous multiple-entry fee | ¥6,000 |
The report estimates that the new charges are equivalent to approximately ₦126,000 for a single-entry visa and ₦252,000 for a multiple-entry visa.
Despite the higher fees, Japan reportedly recorded a relatively lower Nigerian visa refusal rate of between 12% and 15%.
This makes Japan an interesting destination in the report’s comparison, although applicants should not assume that its lower reported refusal rate guarantees approval.
How Nigerians apply for a Japanese visa
The Embassy of Japan in Nigeria confirms that Nigerian citizens require visas regardless of the purpose or duration of their proposed visit.
Since March 2025, most applications and passport collections have been handled through Japan Visa Application Centres in Abuja and Lagos, operated by VFS Global.
The embassy also advises applicants to use the authorised application centre and beware of fraudulent agents claiming to process Japanese visas.
The stated minimum processing time is 12 working days for applications received in Abuja and 14 working days for applications received in Lagos, provided there are no problems with the application. Processing can take longer.
Official information: Embassy of Japan in Nigeria – Visa Information.
India, Indonesia and Malaysia: Other visa costs Nigerians should consider
The report also compares the visa application expenses associated with India, Indonesia and Malaysia.
These destinations have different entry procedures and cost structures, making it important for Nigerians to understand the applicable visa category before making travel arrangements.
India: Reported visa charge of $588
India was identified in the report as one of the most expensive destinations in its visa-cost comparison.
The report estimated a visa charge of approximately $588, equivalent to around ₦819,200.
However, it also noted that India’s electronic visa system offers less expensive options for eligible applicants, with reported charges ranging from $25 to $80 for certain categories.
Nigerians should confirm their eligibility for the relevant Indian e-Visa category before making payment. Not all visa categories or purposes of travel are available through the electronic system.
Official portal: India e-Visa application portal.
Indonesia: Sponsorship requirements can increase application expenses
Indonesia was also identified as a destination where Nigerian applicants need to pay attention to visa sponsorship arrangements.
According to the report, Nigerians generally cannot use the ordinary visa-on-arrival facility and may need a sponsor for the applicable visa category.
The report estimated application charges of between $50 and $110, with additional expenses possible where applicants use agents or require supporting documentation.
It also cited a financial requirement of demonstrating access to $2,000.
However, Indonesian entry conditions differ according to visa category. Applicants should not treat this amount as a universal requirement for every type of Indonesian visa.
Official portal: Indonesia official immigration e-Visa portal.
Malaysia: Electronic visa option for eligible Nigerians
Malaysia was identified as a potentially less expensive destination for Nigerian travellers.
The report estimated the Malaysian e-Visa charge at approximately RM126, equivalent to around ₦40,000–₦45,000 using the exchange rates applied in the analysis.
It also estimated processing at two to three days.
Applicants may be required to provide:
- A valid Nigerian international passport.
- A recent passport photograph.
- A return or onward flight ticket.
- Accommodation information.
- Other documents required for their visa category.
The report estimated Malaysia’s Nigerian visa refusal rate at between 20% and 30%, although this figure should be treated cautiously because it was not independently verified against an official nationality-specific refusal dataset.
Official portal: Malaysia official e-Visa portal.
Visa-free and visa-on-arrival countries Nigerians can consider
One of the recommendations emerging from the report is that Nigerians should consider destinations with more accessible entry arrangements, particularly when travelling for tourism, short holidays, family visits or business.
Instead of spending large amounts on applications to countries with expensive visa processes, eligible Nigerians can explore destinations offering visa-free entry, visas on arrival or electronic travel authorisations.
The report identifies the following destinations as possible alternatives.
1. African countries Nigerians can visit under regional or other visa arrangements
Several African countries provide Nigerian passport holders with visa-free access under regional agreements or national immigration policies.
| Country | General entry arrangement for Nigerian passport holders |
|---|---|
| Ghana | Visa-free under ECOWAS arrangements |
| Benin Republic | Visa-free under ECOWAS arrangements |
| Togo | Visa-free under ECOWAS arrangements |
| Senegal | Visa-free under ECOWAS arrangements |
| The Gambia | Visa-free under ECOWAS arrangements |
| Liberia | Visa-free under ECOWAS arrangements |
| Sierra Leone | Visa-free under ECOWAS arrangements |
| Côte d’Ivoire | Visa-free under ECOWAS arrangements |
| Guinea | Visa-free under ECOWAS arrangements |
| Guinea-Bissau | Visa-free under ECOWAS arrangements |
| Mali | Visa-free under ECOWAS arrangements |
| Niger | Visa-free under ECOWAS arrangements |
| Burkina Faso | Visa-free under ECOWAS arrangements |
| Rwanda | Visa-exempt entry for eligible Nigerian visitors |
| Mauritius | Visa-free entry for eligible Nigerian visitors |
The ECOWAS free-movement framework provides citizens of member states with rights of entry, residence and establishment, subject to applicable conditions.
Nigerians travelling within West Africa should still carry valid travel documents and comply with immigration and public-health requirements.
2. Other international destinations worth considering
The report also identifies destinations outside Africa that may offer more accessible entry arrangements.
| Country | Entry arrangement to investigate |
|---|---|
| Barbados | Visa-free access for eligible Nigerian visitors |
| Dominica | Visa-free access for eligible Nigerian visitors |
| Fiji | Visa-exempt entry for eligible Nigerian visitors |
| Vanuatu | Visa-exempt entry for eligible Nigerian visitors |
| Seychelles | Electronic travel authorisation before departure |
| Kenya | Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) |
| Zambia | Electronic visa options |
These arrangements are not interchangeable. Visa-free entry means an eligible traveller does not need to obtain a conventional visa before travelling, while an electronic travel authorisation or e-Visa requires an application or approval before departure.
For example, Seychelles operates an electronic travel authorisation system, meaning travellers must complete the required travel authorisation procedure even though the country is commonly described as visa-free for many nationalities.
Official travel information should be checked before booking flights.
Comparing the reported costs of popular international visas
The following table brings together the major visa charges highlighted in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs report.
The naira equivalents are the estimates used in the November 2026 report, not guaranteed current exchange-rate conversions. Some fees have since changed or may attract additional charges.
| Destination | Visa category | Reported fee |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Six-month visitor visa | About ₦203,000* |
| United Kingdom | 10-year visitor visa | About ₦2.09m |
| United States | B1/B2 visitor visa | About ₦299,700 |
| Canada | Visitor visa and biometrics | About ₦205,000 |
| Schengen Area | Visa and application-centre charges | About ₦144,000 |
| Japan | Single-entry visa | About ₦126,000 |
| Japan | Multiple-entry visa | About ₦252,000 |
| India | Reported visa charge | About ₦819,200 |
| Malaysia | e-Visa | About ₦40,000–₦45,000 |
| Indonesia | Relevant visa categories | About $50–$110 |
The UK six-month visitor visa figure in the report is based on the previous £127 charge. The current official fee is £135.
The comparison also excludes some expenses that may apply to individual applicants, including travel to visa application centres, courier services, medical examinations, document translations and optional premium services.
Why visa refusals are becoming a serious financial problem for Nigerians
The ₦75 billion estimated annual loss raises wider concerns about the affordability of international travel.
For many Nigerians, travelling abroad requires months or years of saving. A single unsuccessful application can therefore affect household finances, educational plans and business opportunities.
There are several reasons the financial consequences are particularly significant.
1. Visa fees are generally non-refundable
Most countries require applicants to pay their visa fees before the application is assessed.
If the application is refused, the fee is generally not returned.
This means applicants bear the financial risk even when the immigration authority decides that they do not meet the requirements.
2. Supporting documents can be expensive
Visa applications often require several supporting documents.
Depending on the destination and purpose of travel, applicants may spend money on:
- Medical insurance.
- Bank statements and financial documentation.
- Certified translations.
- Academic transcripts.
- Employment letters.
- Sponsorship documents.
- Accommodation reservations.
- Travel itineraries.
- Document verification.
Some of these expenses may not be recoverable after a refusal.
3. Applicants sometimes make non-refundable travel bookings
Another major financial risk arises when applicants purchase flight tickets or pay accommodation deposits before receiving a visa decision.
Some airlines and accommodation providers offer refundable or flexible arrangements, but others impose cancellation charges or retain payments.
Applicants should therefore avoid committing substantial non-refundable travel expenses before obtaining the required immigration permission.
4. Repeated applications increase financial exposure
Some applicants submit another visa application shortly after receiving a refusal without properly addressing the reasons for the previous decision.
This can lead to further losses.
A better approach is to understand the refusal reasons, correct genuine weaknesses and determine whether the circumstances have materially changed before applying again.
5. Unqualified visa agents can increase the cost
Applicants who do not understand immigration requirements may depend heavily on agents and consultants.
While legitimate immigration advisers can provide useful assistance, some intermediaries charge excessive fees or promise guaranteed visa approvals.
No agent can guarantee that a foreign embassy or immigration authority will approve an application.
Applicants should use official government websites and authorised visa application centres wherever possible.
How Nigerians can reduce the risk of losing money on rejected visa applications
The findings of the report provide an opportunity for Nigerian travellers to reconsider how they prepare international visa applications.
The following steps can help reduce unnecessary financial losses.
1. Check the official visa requirements before paying
Applicants should first establish the correct visa category for their intended activities.
For example, someone travelling for a university degree should not apply for a visitor visa when the programme requires a Student visa.
Similarly, tourists should understand the visitor requirements of their destination before paying for appointments or supporting services.
2. Review your financial documents carefully
Financial documentation should demonstrate that the applicant can afford the proposed trip.
Applicants should ensure that:
- Bank statements are genuine.
- Income sources are identifiable.
- Large deposits have reasonable explanations.
- Sponsorship arrangements are properly documented.
- Financial commitments are consistent with the proposed travel.
Submitting a large bank balance without explaining its source may not resolve concerns about financial credibility.
3. Make your travel purpose clear
Applicants should be able to explain why they want to visit the destination and what they intend to do there.
A tourist should provide a credible travel itinerary, while a student should explain their programme choice and academic objectives.
The information in the application should be consistent with the supporting documents.
4. Avoid fake hotel bookings and flight reservations
Some applicants rely on fabricated hotel reservations, flight itineraries or invitation letters to strengthen their applications.
This can create serious problems.
Applicants should provide genuine and verifiable documentation and avoid presenting fabricated reservations as confirmed bookings.
Where an embassy requires proof of accommodation or travel arrangements, applicants should follow the instructions provided by that mission.
5. Do not hide previous visa refusals
Applicants should answer questions about previous immigration refusals accurately.
Attempting to conceal a previous refusal can create additional credibility and misrepresentation problems.
Where a previous application was rejected, the applicant should review the refusal reasons and address them honestly.
6. Avoid unnecessary applications to multiple countries
A common mistake is applying to several destinations without first establishing which country best matches the applicant’s actual travel purpose.
For Schengen applications, travellers should identify the appropriate country responsible for examining their application under the applicable main-destination rules.
Applicants should not choose a consulate simply because they believe it has a lower refusal rate.
7. Consider travel destinations with more accessible entry requirements
For tourism and short holidays, Nigerians can investigate countries that offer visa-free access or simpler entry arrangements.
This may reduce the initial financial commitment associated with conventional visa applications.
However, travellers must still consider flight costs, accommodation, safety, insurance and entry conditions.
What this report means for Nigerian students planning to study abroad
The financial implications are particularly important for Nigerians seeking international university admission.
Unlike tourists, students often incur several expenses before they even submit a study permit application.
These may include:
- University application fees.
- English-language examination fees.
- Transcript processing.
- Credential evaluation.
- Admission deposits.
- Tuition payments.
- Medical examinations.
- Proof-of-funds preparation.
- Visa application fees.
- Biometric charges.
A rejected study permit application can therefore result in losses beyond the immigration fee itself.
Practical advice for prospective international students
Nigerians planning to study in Canada, the UK, the US or Europe should take the following precautions:
First, confirm admission eligibility. Apply to institutions and programmes that match your academic background and career objectives.
Second, understand the visa requirements. An admission offer does not guarantee a study permit or Student visa.
Third, check refund policies. Before paying tuition deposits, establish what happens if your visa application is refused.
Fourth, prepare credible financial evidence. Your funding arrangements should be genuine, accessible and consistent with the applicable immigration rules.
Fifth, avoid unnecessary agent expenses. Use official university admission portals and government immigration websites.
Finally, consider alternative destinations. Countries with affordable tuition, reasonable living costs and accessible student visa procedures may provide better options for some applicants.
Official resources Nigerians should use before paying visa fees
These government websites provide information about visa applications, entry requirements and immigration procedures.
| Destination | Official immigration resource |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | UK Visas and Immigration |
| Canada | IRCC official website |
| United States | US Department of State – Visas |
| Schengen Area | European Commission – Schengen visa policy |
| Japan | Embassy of Japan in Nigeria |
| India | India visa portal |
| Indonesia | Indonesia e-Visa |
| Malaysia | Malaysia e-Visa |
Important verification notes about the ₦75 billion report
The ₦75 billion figure is an estimate attributed to a Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa-cost analysis, as reported by Blueprint and Sunday Punch. It should not be presented as an independently audited government expenditure or a confirmed amount collected by foreign embassies.
There are also important differences people should understand:
- The 75% Canadian study permit refusal figure is reported specifically for Nigerian applicants between January and April 2026. It is not Canada’s worldwide refusal rate.
- The 64% US F-1 refusal figure relates to African applicants, not exclusively Nigerians.
- Schengen refusal rates differ by nationality, destination country, consulate and visa category. The European Commission publishes official annual statistics, which should be consulted when making country-specific comparisons.
- Visa fees change. The UK’s six-month visitor fee, for example, increased from £127 to £135 in April 2026.
- Visa-free, visa-on-arrival and e-Visa arrangements can change, and eligibility must be confirmed for Nigerian passport holders before travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much do Nigerians lose annually to visa fees and rejected applications?
According to a Ministry of Foreign Affairs report cited by Blueprint and Sunday Punch, Nigerians lose an estimated ₦75 billion annually through visa application expenses and related losses.
2. How much did Nigerians lose to rejected Schengen visa applications in 2025?
The report estimates that unsuccessful Schengen visa applications cost Nigerians approximately €11.5 million, equivalent to about ₦19 billion, in 2025.
3. Which Schengen country has the highest reported visa refusal rate for Nigerians?
Belgium recorded the highest refusal rate among the countries highlighted in the report, at 60.3%. Spain followed at 52.7%, while France recorded 47.4%.
4. What percentage of Nigerian students’ Canadian study permit applications were rejected in 2026?
The Ministry report cited a 75% refusal rate between January and April 2026. This is a reported Nigeria-specific estimate and should not be confused with IRCC’s worldwide figures.
5. What is the current UK six-month visitor visa fee?
The UK six-month Standard Visitor visa application fee is £135 under the Home Office fee schedule effective April 8, 2026.
6. How much does a US visitor visa cost for Nigerians?
The standard US B1/B2 visitor visa application fee is generally $185. Additional costs may apply depending on the applicant’s circumstances.
7. Which African countries can Nigerians visit without a visa?
Nigerians can generally visit other ECOWAS member states without obtaining a conventional visa for qualifying short stays. These include Ghana, Benin Republic, Togo, Senegal, The Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso.
8. Can Nigerians recover visa fees after an application is rejected?
Generally, no. Visa application fees are usually non-refundable, even when the application is unsuccessful. Some separate services may have their own refund policies.
9. Should Nigerians book flights before receiving a visa?
Applicants should avoid purchasing expensive non-refundable flight tickets before receiving their visa. Where proof of travel arrangements is required, they should follow the relevant embassy’s instructions and use genuine reservations.
10. Does using a visa agent guarantee approval?
No. Visa agents cannot guarantee approval. Immigration decisions are made by the relevant embassy or government authority.
A Travel Consultant dedicated to helping students, job seekers, and professionals discover life-changing opportunities around the world. He holds a Diploma in Human Resource Management, Project Management & Ticketing, Degree in Microbiology, and Master’s in Public Health.
