How to Track Your UK Visa Application Status in Nigeria

Wondering what the current status is of your UK visa application in Nigeria? Tracking the progress of your application is essential for Uk Study updates on whether it has been received, is being processed, or a decision has been made.

Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to check your UK visa application status right from Nigeria. In this post, we’ll outline step-by-step methods to track your application via the application center website, the self-service visa portal, SMS/email updates, and more.

Why Track Your UK Visa Application Status?

Here are some key reasons to keep track of your application status:

• Receive updates if more supporting documents are needed
• Know whether your biometrics appointment is scheduled
• Check if a decision has been made on your application
• Avoid unnecessary delays and get peace of mind
• Be prepared once your passport request comes in

The UK Visa Application Centre and UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) offer applicant-friendly services to check in on your application progress whenever you require.

Tracking methods only require your application GWF number and date of birth to access status updates. Let’s look at the top ways to check the status of a UK visa application in Nigeria.

Track UK Visa via the UKVAC Nigeria Website

The easiest way to check the progress of your UK visa application in Nigeria is directly on the UK Visa Application Centre’s website.

Here’s how to track your application on UKVAC Nigeria:

1. Navigate to the UKVAC Nigeria user pay services page.
2. Scroll down and click on “Check Your Application Status.
3. This opens a login form. Enter your GWF application number and date of birth.
4. Click “Proceed” to view an update on your current visa application status.

The UKVAC status check page displays important status indicators to let you know where your application is at. Common statuses you may see include:

• Application received – Biometrics appointment to be scheduled
• Biometrics enrolled – Application is under processing
• Additional documents required – Check the visa portal
• Ready for collection – Passport request received

The visa application center receives updates directly from UKVI as they process your application after biometric enrollment. So, checking directly with them can yield the latest status updates.

Check UK Application Status on the Self-Service Visa Portal

The UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) Self-Service Visa Portal is another option for checking your visa application status directly with UKVI.

Follow these steps:

1. Go to the Sign in to use the service page.
2. Register for an account with your email address and application details.
3. A verification code will be emailed – input this to access your account.
4. In the portal, navigate to the “View and prove your immigration status” section.
5. Select “Check a Visa Application” and input your information.
6. The portal displays update messages directly from UKVI on your application’s current status.

The portal also clearly shows if a decision has been made on your application, whether you’ve been asked to provide missing documentation, if your biometrics or interview appointments are coming up, or if there are other next steps.

Having an account on the official Self-Service Visa Portal is quite helpful in getting official UKVI updates on your application straight from the source on your own schedule.

Receive Automated Status Updates from Teleperformance

Teleperformance is the UKVI’s service provider in Nigeria, responsible for administrative functions related to visa applications.

When you submit your visa application at your chosen Visa Application Centre in Nigeria, you can opt-in to receive free automated application status update alerts directly from Teleperformance.

There are two methods to get updates:

SMS Application Status Alerts

When submitting your application, you will be given the option to register your mobile number to receive SMS text alerts on your application progress.

The text messages will notify you as soon as there are status changes on your application with UKVI. This saves you the effort of manually tracking everywhere.

Email Application Status Alerts

Similarly, you can subscribe with your email address to receive automated application status alerts in your inbox from Teleperformance.

The email updates will also immediately inform you whenever there is any movement in processing your UK visa application.

Having both text and email notifications enabled helps ensure you receive updates promptly through either channel. This Teleperformance service provides applicants with convenience by pushing the latest status changes directly, without the need to cross-check multiple tracking methods.

Contact Visa Application Centre to check the status

If you require urgent updates or have issues accessing the various self-service tracking options, you can directly contact the Visa Application Centre in Nigeria where you submitted your application.

To check the status with help from the application center staff:

• Call the UKVAC Nigeria helpline number: Customer service agents can access the latest statuses when you provide your Global Visa Reference Number or Application Number
• Email the Application Centre: The UKVAC helpdesk also accepts status check requests by email. Send all required details, including full name, GWF number, passport number, and any error messages you may receive.

The staff at the Visa Application Centre have internal channels to communicate directly with UKVI in real time. So they can inform you right away on where exactly your application is held up or provide any extra insights as needed.

This manual option via phone or email is best when self-service tracking does not produce progress updates or when urgency arises.

We hope this guide has provided practical, step-by-step methods for tracking the status of your UK visa application in Nigeria. The UK Visa Application Centre website, Self-Service Visa Portal, SMS/email alerts, and direct helpline access offer convenient ways to check your application whenever needed.

Be sure to save relevant reference numbers and login access for a smooth tracking experience without delays or barriers. Focus on providing complete and accurate visa requirements at the start, then use the options outlined to stay updated on your application status with UKVI and Teleperformance as it progresses towards the final decision. Follow our blog for more exciting news and updates about studying in the UK and obtaining a UK visa.

FAQs on Tracking UK Visa Applications

Q: How do I get my application GWF reference number for tracking?

A: Your GWF number is assigned to your application when you fill out the visa forms online. It will also be printed on your receipt from the Visa Application Centre. This unique number enables tracking across various platforms.

Q: I have not received any SMS or email updates. What should I do?

A: First, double-check that your mobile number and email address were entered correctly on your application. Also, verify that Teleperformance has the consent to contact you. If issues persist, contact the Visa Centre so they can escalate to Teleperformance to activate your status alerts.

Q: What does the “application deferred” message mean?

A: This means UKVI came across something in your application that requires further investigation. Review whether UKVI has contacted you for any additional documents. Communications will arrive via email, SMS or postal mail. Respond promptly not to delay processing.

Q: My visa status still shows “awaiting a decision” after many weeks. Should I be worried?

A: Application decision timelines vary on a case-by-case basis, depending on the visa processing centre location as well. Do not worry as long as you provided all complete documentation accurately at the start. Avoid unnecessary enquiries in the meantime with UKVI so as to not cause delays. Remain patient.