When I started researching Thailand as a destination, the visa question came up immediately. Nigerian passport holders cannot enter Thailand visa-free, and the information online is scattered, outdated, or written for people applying from Nigeria rather than from the UK. This post is specifically for Nigerians based in the UK who want to visit Thailand.
I made a full video walking through the process, the costs, and what happened at my appointment. Watch it below.
Which Visa to Apply For
For a standard tourist trip, you want the TR (Tourist Visa). It is a single or double entry visa valid for 60 days from your date of entry. If you want to extend or do multiple entries, the TR-DE (double entry) gives you more flexibility. Most people doing a straightforward holiday will be fine with single entry.
Apply at the Royal Thai Embassy in London (in person) or through a Thai consulate. As a UK resident, you apply in the UK regardless of where your passport is from. You do not need to go back to Nigeria to apply.
Documents Required
The requirements are specific and the embassy will reject incomplete applications, so get this right. You need: a valid Nigerian passport (at least 6 months validity), your UK residence document (BRP, visa, or settled/pre-settled status letter), a completed application form (available on the embassy website), two recent passport photos (35mm x 45mm), confirmed return flight booking, proof of hotel booking for the full duration of your stay, and a bank statement showing at least 3 months of history with sufficient funds. The fund threshold is not officially published, but showing 10,000 Thai Baht per day of travel (roughly £220 for a 10-day trip) is the guideline most people work to.
The Application Fee and Timeline
Single entry TR visa costs £30. Double entry costs £60. Payment is cash only at the London embassy, so bring the exact amount. Processing takes 3 working days for standard applications. You can collect your passport in person or use the postal service option for an additional fee.
Book your appointment online through the Thai Embassy London website. Appointments fill up quickly in peak season (October to February), so book at least 4 to 6 weeks before your intended travel date.
What Happens at the Appointment
The appointment itself is straightforward. You hand over your documents, they review them, ask basic questions about your trip (where you are staying, how long, your return date), and that is largely it. The whole thing takes about 15 minutes. Dress neatly and answer clearly. Be specific about your itinerary if asked.
I cover every step of this in the video above, including the actual appointment experience and what I spent on the trip itself.