UK Raises Student Visa Financial Requirements for West Africa

The United Kingdom government has announced an increase in the minimum financial requirements for international students applying for student visas from 15 West African countries, effective November 30, 2026. The changes were presented to Parliament on September 3, 2026.

Students studying in London must now demonstrate access to £1,570 (approximately ₦3.1 million) per month, an increase from £1,529, while those studying outside London must show £1,203 (approximately ₦2.4 million), up from £1,171. Over a nine-month period, London-based students must prove access to £14,130 (about $19,100 or ₦29.5 million), while students in other regions must show £10,827 (about $14,630 or ₦22.6 million).

These figures represent increases of £369 and £288, respectively. The new financial thresholds apply to students from countries including Ghana, Senegal, and Ivory Coast, among others.

Notably, Cameroon is excluded from these changes due to a separate emergency "visa brake" policy.