When people decide to travel or relocate abroad, the first confusion that hits is the type of visa to apply for.
You’ll hear words like “Tier 4,” “Schengen,” “F1,” “D Visa,” and “Express Entry”—but what do they all really mean?
This guide is your clear, no-jargon introduction to the most common visa types that Nigerians and other Africans encounter—and which one might be right for you.
1. The Schengen Visa (Europe)
Purpose: Short stay (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) for tourism, business, or family visit.
Valid For: 26 European countries including France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, etc.
Note:
- It does not allow you to work or study long term.
- You must apply to the country where you’ll spend the most time.
- Overstaying can lead to bans across all Schengen states.
Ideal For:
Tourists, conference attendees, or those visiting family/friends in Europe.
2. Tier 4 Student Visa (United Kingdom)
Purpose: Long-term study in the UK (undergraduate, postgraduate, etc.)
Requirements:
- Admission from a licensed UK school
- Proof of tuition + living expenses
- English language proof (e.g., IELTS)
Bonus:
You can work part-time during term and full-time during holidays.
Ideal For:
Students ready to start full degree programs.
3. F1 Student Visa (United States)
Purpose: Academic studies at U.S. colleges and universities
Requirements:
- I-20 form from a SEVP-certified school
- Proof of finances
- Strong ties to your home country (they expect you to return after school)
Note:
You cannot work freely off-campus unless authorized. On-campus jobs are limited.
Ideal For:
Full-time university students, especially undergrads or master’s applicants.
4. Study Permit (Canada)
Purpose: Full-time study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Requirements:
- Admission letter
- Proof of funds
- Statement of purpose
- Medicals & biometrics
Bonus:
- You can work while studying.
- You’re eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after finishing your course, which can lead to permanent residency.
Ideal For:
Students aiming for long-term relocation in Canada.
5. Subclass 500 Student Visa (Australia)
Purpose: Study at registered Australian institutions
Requirements:
- COE (Confirmation of Enrolment)
- Proof of funds
- Health insurance
- GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) statement
Note:
Allows part-time work during study. Australia also has post-study work routes based on location and course type.
Ideal For:
Students wanting study + migration potential.
6. D-Type (Long-Stay) Visa – Europe
Purpose: Study, work, or family reunification for more than 90 days
Used In:
Germany, Finland, France, etc.
Note:
Unlike Schengen, this visa is country-specific and allows residence or even settlement. Many African students use this for master’s programs in Germany or Finland.
Ideal For:
People relocating to a specific European country for school or work.
7. Skilled Worker / Work Visas
These vary by country but include:
- Canada: Express Entry, PNP, and Job-Offer based work permits
- UK: Skilled Worker Visa (Tier 2 replacement)
- Germany: Job Seeker Visa (6-month visa to find a job)
- New Zealand & Australia: Points-based immigration and employer-sponsored visas
Ideal For:
Professionals, artisans, and tradespeople with qualifications, experience, or job offers.
8. Dependent or Spouse Visas
Allows the spouse or children of a student or worker to join them abroad.
Key Points:
- UK and Canada often allow dependents to work.
- The visa depends on the sponsor’s visa type and financial stability.
Ideal For:
Married applicants relocating with their families.
9. Visitor/Tourist Visas
Countries: USA (B1/B2), Canada (TRV), UK (Standard Visitor), Schengen (Type C), etc.
Note:
- Strictly for short-term visits
- Working is prohibited
- Must prove strong ties to your home country
Ideal For:
Weddings, tourism, family visits, or short events.
Final Tips Before You Apply
- Understand the purpose of each visa—don’t guess
- Research specific requirements for your destination
- Always present genuine, verifiable documents
- If in doubt, get professional guidance
At Loyalty Travels, We Match You With the Right Visa Path
Don’t let visa jargon stop your dream. We help you figure out what works best for your situation—whether you’re a student, skilled worker, dependent, or tourist.
Ready to take the next step?
Let’s assess your profile and pick the best path for your relocation.
#VisaTypesExplained #JapaWisely #StudentVisa #WorkAbroad #RelocateRight #LoyaltyTravels #AfricaToTheWorld #VisaApplicationTips #SkilledMigration #JapaJourney