UK Citizenship Now Takes 10 Years Nigerians Face Tougher Path Under Starmer’s New Immigration Policy
Published: May 13, 2025
By: Traveltaf News Team
Thousands of Nigerians aspiring to settle in the United Kingdom may now face a longer, more challenging road to citizenship following sweeping immigration reforms announced by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The new policy, released in a government white paper on May 12, doubles the minimum residency period required to qualify for British citizenship from 5 to 10 years.
This move, part of a broader agenda to reduce net migration and overhaul the UK immigration system, has triggered concerns across Nigeria’s diplomatic, education, and migration sectors.
Nigerians Hit Hard by the New Rule
Nigeria has long ranked among the top countries for student and skilled worker migration to the UK. The new 10-year residency requirement directly affects:
• Nigerian students hoping to stay and naturalize after their studies
• Skilled professionals seeking a long-term future in the UK
• Families undergoing the citizenship process under the previous 5-year policy
Analysts warn that this shift could disrupt thousands of Nigerians’ plans, especially those who relocated in recent years with the goal of obtaining British citizenship within a relatively shorter timeline.
Additional Policy Changes Impacting Nigerians:
• Skilled Worker Route Tightened: Migrants now need a university degree to qualify for skilled worker visas, making it harder for HND holders and mid-level professionals from Nigeria to qualify.
• Reduced Post-Study Work Rights: Nigerian students in the UK will now have only 18 months to remain after graduation, down from two years previously. This limits job-hunting opportunities and increases pressure to secure sponsorship quickly.
• Higher Employer Charges: UK companies must now pay a 32% higher Immigration Skills Charge when hiring international workers, potentially discouraging the hiring of Nigerian professionals.
• Stricter Language Requirements: New rules demand higher English language proficiency from applicants and their adult dependents.
Reaction from Nigeria
The policy has sparked sharp reactions in Nigeria, especially from education consultants, migration advisers, and families with loved ones in the UK.
“This is a major blow for thousands of young Nigerians who saw the UK as a land of opportunity,” said Emeka Onuoha, a Lagos-based immigration consultant. “Many families have already invested heavily in UK education and relocation. This policy creates uncertainty and longer waiting periods with no clear transitional plan.”
Several parents of Nigerian students in the UK have also expressed concerns, fearing that the shortened post-study period may force their children to return prematurely or face legal limbo.
UK’s Justification and Diplomatic Concerns
The UK government argues that the reforms are necessary to “restore public confidence” in the immigration system, reduce pressure on services, and promote integration.
However, Nigerian diplomats are expected to raise the issue with their UK counterparts, particularly regarding the impact on students, professionals, and families already on a citizenship path.
What Should Nigerians Do?
• For students: Plan your academic and career timeline carefully. Start job applications early during your studies.
• For migrants: Understand your current residency status and assess how the new rule may affect your citizenship eligibility.
• For intending migrants: Seek updated legal advice and review all visa and migration options thoroughly before making relocation decisions.
As the UK tightens its borders, Nigerians who have historically viewed Britain as a prime destination for study, work, and settlement must now navigate a far more complex immigration system. Whether the Nigerian government responds diplomatically or not, the impact on families, students, and professionals is already being felt.