The United Kingdom Deputy Head of Mission, Simon Field, has issued an advisory to Nigerians on UK visa interview preparations.
Field said moving large sums of money before a UK visa interview could harm visa applications.
According to Field, this is because moving funds abruptly can raise red flags, signaling potential fraud to visa officers.
Field revealed this caution during a morning programme, Let’s Talk on Nigeria Info, Lagos.
He said: “One of the things that we always see with visas, which scares visa clearance officers, is people who think you have to have a certain amount of money in their accounts. And overnight, they suddenly transfer lots of money into their account, don’t do that.
“It’s bad for the visa officer because it makes you look suspicious. Just give all of the kind of information that you need around, how much money you have, and share a long-term history.”
Addressing other issues that could raise red flags for UK consular officers, the Deputy Head of Mission said: “If you had less than five pounds in your account, but wanted to stay at the Ritz, for example, then maybe a UK visa clearance officer would be suspicious of that, because how are you going to pay for your hotel?
“But if you have enough money to cover your expenses, and you show a salary or a certain amount of income, that makes it much easier.
Despite the UK’s recent immigration policy affecting Nigerians who plan to travel abroad, the Deputy Head disclosed the UK’s effort and willingness to welcome more Nigerians to every part of the United Kingdom.
He added: “That’s all we’re looking for. Most visas are issued for the UK, and we’re welcoming. We really want Nigerians to come to the UK and explore London and the whole of the United Kingdom. And I promise you, most visas are issued.”
