Immigration: government of the United Kingdom to consult Nigeria on the new visa rules

The high British commission in Nigeria has stated that it will work with the pertinent partners in the federal government, once the details of implementing the new reforms of the immigration of the United Kingdom are made available.

This follows the release of a White Paper by the government of the United Kingdom on Monday, outlining large changes to the immigration system.

The new policy includes the end of the visa path for social work work, the imposition of a longer regulation path for migrants, the shortening of the visa period for graduates and the introduction of compulsory English language tests for dependent people.

While the exact time sequence for implementation has yet to be announced, the high British commission has moved to reassure the Nigerians of the continuous strong bilateral relations between the two countries.

In his declaration, the high British commission said: “The United Kingdom enjoys strong long-standing popular connections with Nigeria. We are proud that the United Kingdom is still considered a more important destination for the Nigerians to work, study, visit and establish and evaluate the contribution that this leads to the United Kingdom.

“The White Paper of the United Kingdom establishes the reforms for legal migration, including the restoration of the order, control and equity to the system, reducing net migration and promoting economic growth.

“The changes to the system will take place for a period of time and we will work with the pertinent partners in the Federal Government of Nigeria, more information on the implementation details is available.

“We have a tradition proud as a nation with an external appearance, investments and negotiating abroad and welcoming the creativity, ideas and diversity of those who come to contribute here,” he said.