Applying for a UK student or visit visa can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to the Proof of Funds (POF) requirement. Many Nigerian applicants worry about whether their account history, transactions, or sponsorship will affect their application.
To make things easier, we’ve compiled the most common questions and answers about UK visa proof of funds. This guide will help you understand how it works, what documents you need, and how to avoid mistakes that could delay or deny your visa.
Can I use my sponsor’s account please?
Yes, but only for immediate family members like parents, father, mother, and siblings. You’ll need to provide birth certificates to prove the family relationship. For other relatives or friends, it’s better to put the money in your own account.
I used the account even when the money was still inside just to keep it active
That’s okay as long as your transactions don’t exceed ₦100,000 and you limit them to maximum 2 transactions per week. The account can have some activity—it doesn’t need to be completely dormant.
What if they ask me how I got such a huge amount? My source of income?
The UK doesn’t typically question your source of income for student visas. Unlike Canada, they rarely ask where the money came from as long as it’s in your account for the required period.
Does it have to be the last 28 days before visa application? Or can I print from January and still use in May?
You can print from January and still use it in May, but it’s better to have more recent statements. The 28 days just needs to be completed—it doesn’t have to be immediately before your application.
It lasted more than 28 days but with few transactions, any issue?
No issue at all. Having the money in your account for longer than 28 days is even better. As long as your transactions are minimal, you’re fine.
40m?? Who the hell has that kind of money
Many people do. And remember, family sponsorship also counts.
Must it be in my account? What if my parents sponsor me?
If your parents sponsor you, you can use their account but you must provide birth certificates to prove the parent-child relationship.
Is Saturday and Sunday included in the 28 days?
Yes. All days including weekends count toward the 28-day period.
Can I use my father’s account?
Yes, you can, as long as you provide a birth certificate proving he’s your father.
How about visit visa proof of funds?
The requirements differ from student visas. Check the official UK Home Office website for the updated amount needed.
Is it safe to remove the money after printing 28 days statement?
No. Keep the money in the account until you arrive in the UK because they might request an updated statement during processing.
Can I open a fresh 1-month account for POF?
Yes, you can open a new account specifically for proof of funds. Many applicants do this.
Can I open a new account just for POF and not touch it?
You can, but it’s better to have light activity (4-5 transactions) to show the account is active.
What if it’s a relative sponsoring (not immediate family)?
For uncles, aunts, cousins, etc., it’s safer to transfer the funds to your own account and meet the 28-day rule.
I’m using 35m instead of 40m, will it work?
It depends on your actual calculation. Use Oanda.com to convert your tuition balance plus 9 months living expenses. If it meets the requirement, it’s fine.
Must we carry out transactions? Or just deposit and leave it?
Light activity is recommended. Don’t leave the account completely untouched, but don’t use it like a normal account either.
What if I put 60m instead of 40m? Any problem?
No problem. Having more money than required is a plus.
Do I need the 28 days statement before CAS?
Yes, most schools require it before issuing a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies).
Can we credit the account during the 28 days?
Yes, but keep inflows small and reasonable.
Can I put all the money at once?
Yes, you can deposit the full amount at once. The 28-day count starts the next day.
What if the money has been there for 2 years?
That’s even better. They only check the latest 28 days, but longer history shows stability.
Can my account balance be higher than the required amount?
Yes. More is always better.
Will POF used for CAS still work for visa application?
Yes, but only if your CAS comes within 2 days of the statement. Otherwise, refresh it.
What about scholarships? Do I still need POF?
If it’s fully funded, no. If partial, you must show proof for the uncovered amount.
Can I just leave the money untouched for 28 days?
Yes, but light transactions are slightly better.
If I have 44m (fees + living expenses), what extra should I add?
Add at least ₦500,000 as a buffer for small inflows or withdrawals.
Can I withdraw immediately after printing the statement?
No. Wait until your visa is granted.
Do I need to start POF on the 1st of the month?
No, you can start any day. Just count 28 consecutive days.
What if the fund is from someone not related to me?
Once the money is in your account, it doesn’t matter. The UK doesn’t usually question source of funds.
During 28 days, can I receive inflows or just small outflows?
Both are fine, but keep each under ₦100,000 and limit to 2 per week.
Can I use my old account with 2 years transaction history for POF?
Yes, only the last 28 days matter.
Do I include spouse/dependent expenses in the calculation?
Yes, always include dependents if traveling with them.
Can I use a dollar account for POF?
Yes, but ensure you meet the pound equivalent using Oanda.com.
What if my sponsor has a house I’ll stay in? Do I still need living expenses?
Yes, because food and other expenses are still required.
So if I don’t spend at all during 28 days, it’s okay?
Yes, but light activity is slightly better.
After paying tuition fees, do I still need POF?
Yes, you need to show the balance plus 9 months of living expenses.
Must it be a Nigerian bank account?
If applying from Nigeria, yes. Unless you’re applying from another country, use a Nigerian bank account.
Conclusion
Meeting the UK visa proof of funds requirement doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is making sure your account shows the right amount for at least 28 consecutive days, keeping light activity, and ensuring you use the correct sponsor documents if needed.
Always calculate carefully using the official tuition balance + living expenses formula, add a small buffer, and avoid withdrawing money until your visa is approved.
If you follow these guidelines, your proof of funds will not be an obstacle in your UK visa journey.
