New Features of U.K. Visa Application System

The British High Commission in Nigeria announced a new system of visa application, whereby U.K. visa would be paid for online in U.S. dollars.

The commission declared that the new system would begin on December 16, 2013, Monday, in a statement signed by its Press and Public Affairs Officer, Mr. Rob Fitzpatrick, on December 4, 2013, Wednesday.

“From Dec. 16, 2013, all applications for U.K. visa must be completed using our online application system and paid for online in U.S. dollars.

“Payment can be made using a Verve debit card, Visa or MasterCard credit or debit cards or the e-wallet PAGA.

“The move to online application and payment will deliver a streamlined process.

“It is consistent with a wider global trend to online transactions and payments,” the statement said.

The commission added that the new system had met the requirements of the U.K. Government’s Digital by Default Initiative.

It further expressed optimism that the system would reduce costs in the management of visa operation, as well as help to reduce visa fees. Another benefit of the innovation is that the system would be safer for customers, as it would reduce the risk of handling large sums.