Relocating your family from Nigeria to the UK is a big decision that comes with exciting opportunities. One of the most popular ways to make this move is through a UK sponsor visa.
This visa allows you to bring your loved ones to the UK legally, whether for work, family reunion, or a better quality of life.
If you’re wondering how to move your family to the UK with a sponsor visa from Nigeria, this guide will walk you through the steps in simple terms. Let’s break it down so you can start planning your journey today!
When moving your family, you’ll need to include your spouse, children, or other dependents on your application. The process can seem tricky, but with the right steps, it’s manageable. Here’s how to get started.
Understand the Visa Options for Your Family
Before you apply, you need to know which sponsor visa fits your situation. Here are the main options for Nigerians moving to the UK with their family:
Skilled Worker Visa
If you’ve got a job offer from the UK employer with a sponsorship license, this is a great choice. You can bring your spouse and children under 18 as dependents. The employer must pay you a minimum salary (usually £26,200 per year), and the job should be on the UK’s approved list.
Family Visa
If you have a close relative in the UK such as spouse, parent, or child, who is a British citizen or has settled status, they can sponsor you and your family to join them.
Student Visa with Dependents
If you’re studying in the UK at a higher level (like a Master’s or PhD), you might be able to bring your family as dependents. Your course and school must meet specific rules.
Each visa has its own requirements, so pick the one that matches your goals. For most Nigerians, the Skilled Worker Visa is a top choice because it ties to job opportunities.
Check Eligibility for You and Your Family
To move your family to the UK with a sponsor visa, everyone must meet certain rules. Here’s what you’ll need:
For You (the Main Applicant):
A sponsor in the UK (employer, family member, or school).
Proof you can do the job or meet family reunion rules.
Enough money to support yourself and your family (more on this later).
A clean criminal record.
For Your Family (Dependents):
Proof of your relationship such as marriage certificate for your spouse or birth certificates for your kids.
They must be your spouse or children under 18 (older kids may qualify in special cases).
Passports for each family member.
You have to ensure that your documents are readily available and updated. Missing papers can delay your application.
Find a Sponsor in the UK
Your sponsor is the key to this visa. Here’s how to find one:
For a Job (Skilled Worker Visa):
Look for UK companies with a sponsorship license. Websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, or the UK government’s sponsor list can help. Jobs in healthcare, IT, or engineering are often open to Nigerians. Once you get an offer, the employer gives you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which you’ll need for your visa.
For Family Reunion:
If your sponsor is a relative, they must prove they live in the UK legally and can support you. They’ll need to provide their ID, income proof, and housing details.
Finding a sponsor takes time, so start early. If you’re going for a job, tailor your CV to UK standards and apply to many roles.
Gather the Required Funds
Moving to the UK isn’t cheap, and the government wants to know you can take care of your family. Here’s what you’ll need:
Skilled Worker Visa:
You must show you have at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 days before applying. For each dependent (spouse or child), add £285 for your partner and £315 per child. So, for a family of four (you, spouse, and two kids), you’ll need around £2,215 total.
Family Visa:
Your UK sponsor must prove they earn enough—usually £18,600 per year—or have savings to support you.
Other Costs:
Include visa fees (£600–£1,500 per person), the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,000+ per person per year), and travel expenses.
Save up early and keep your bank statements ready as proof.
Apply for the Sponsor Visa
Once you have your sponsor and funds, it’s time to apply. Here’s how:
Fill Out the Online Form:
Visit the UK government website (gov.uk) and choose the right visa type. You’ll apply as the main applicant and add your family as dependents.
Submit Documents:
Upload your Certificate of Sponsorship (if applicable), passports, relationship proof, bank statements, and other papers.
Pay the Fees:
Visa fees and the health surcharge must be paid online during the application.
Book a Biometrics Appointment:
You and your family will visit a visa center in Nigeria (like in Lagos or Abuja) to give fingerprints and photos.
Wait for a Decision:
Processing takes 3–8 weeks, so apply at least three months before you plan to move.
Double-check everything before submitting to avoid delays.
Prepare for the Move
Once your visa is approved, congratulations! Now, get ready to relocate:
Book Flights:
Find affordable tickets from Nigeria to the UK. Cities like London, Manchester, or Birmingham are common destinations.
Arrange Housing:
Ask your sponsor to help you find a place to live. Renting a flat or house is common for new arrivals.
Pack Smart:
Bring clothes for the UK’s cold weather, important documents, and items your family needs. You can buy most things in the UK.
Plan for Kids:
If your children are joining, research schools near your new home. UK public schools are free for visa holders.
Tell your sponsor your arrival date so they can support you when you land.
Settle in the UK
After arriving, take these steps to settle in:
Collect Your Visa:
Pick up your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) at a post office within 10 days of arrival.
Open a Bank Account:
You’ll need this for salary or daily expenses. Banks like Barclays or Lloyds are beginner-friendly.
Register with a Doctor:
The Immigration Health Surcharge gives you access to the NHS (UK healthcare). Find a local GP for your family.
Get a National Insurance Number:
This is needed for work and benefits. Apply online or by phone.
Help your family adjust by exploring your new area together and meeting other Nigerians in the UK.
Conclusion
Moving your family to the UK from Nigeria with a sponsor visa is a big step, but it’s worth it for a fresh start. Whether you’re chasing a job, education, or family reunion, the process involves finding a sponsor, meeting requirements, and applying correctly.
You can read more related article: How to Immigrate to Canada Without a Job Offer
