U.K. Introduces New Visa Application System, Begins December 16.

NAN

The British High Commission in Nigeria on Wednesday announced a new system of visa application whereby U.K. visa would be paid for online in U.S. dollars.

In a statement signed by its Press and Public Affairs Officer, Mr Rob Fitzpatrick, the commission said that the new system would begin on Dec. 16.

“From Dec. 16, 2013, all applications for U.K. visa must be completed using our online application system and paid for online in U.S. dollars.

“Payment can be made using a Verve debit card, Visa or MasterCard credit or debit cards or the

e-wallet PAGA.

“The move to online application and payment will deliver a streamlined process.

“It is consistent with a wider global trend to online transactions and payments,’’ it said.

The commission added that the new system had met the requirements of the U.K. Government’s Digital by Default Initiative.

It expressed optimism that the system would cut costs in the management of visa operation as well as help to reduce visa fees.

The commission also said that the system would be safer for customers as it would reduce the risk of handling large sums.