Upcoming Changes to UK Visa Application Centres
In This Article
- Introduction
- Changes in Commercial Partners for Applications Outside the UK
- What This Means for You
- UK Visa Application Centres Affected by the Change
- Changes for Applications Inside the UK
- Final Thoughts on the Changes to UK Visa Application Centres
- Contact our Immigration Barristers
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Glossary
- Additional Resources
1. Introduction
If you’re planning to apply for a UK visa, it’s important to stay informed about upcoming changes to visa application centres (VACs). These centres, which handle visa applications on behalf of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), are operated by commercial partners, also known as ‘suppliers.’ However, between September 2024 and January 2025, some locations will see a shift in the commercial partner responsible for these services.
2. Changes in Commercial Partners for Applications Outside the UK
In certain regions, between September 2024 and January 2025, the current commercial partner, TLScontact, will be replaced by VFS Global. This transition will occur in specific locations across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. It’s important to note that other parts of the world will not be affected by this change.
3. What This Means for You
If your application is affected by the change, you will receive email notifications from both TLScontact and VFS Global. It’s crucial to read all these emails carefully, as they may contain important instructions on how to proceed with your application. To avoid missing any updates, be sure to check your junk or spam folders regularly. Additionally, to verify the authenticity of these emails, make sure the sender’s address ends in either @tlscontact.com or @vfsglobal.com.
4. UK Visa Application Centres Affected by the Change
The visa application centre in Belgium transitioned from being operated by TLScontact to VFS Global on 3 September 2024. UK visa applicants in Belgium must now book a biometrics appointment through VFS Global. If you’ve already scheduled an appointment with TLScontact, you can still attend as planned. If you have not uploaded your supporting documents you will need to pay for the assisted scanning service when you attend your appointment. Make sure to double-check the location details in your appointment confirmation email.
The following visa application centres transitioned from being operated by TLScontact to VFS Global on 22 October 2024. UK visa applicants in these countries must now book a biometrics appointment through VFS Global. If you’ve already scheduled an appointment with TLScontact, you can still attend as planned. If you have not uploaded your supporting documents you will need to pay for the assisted scanning service when you attend your appointment. Make sure to double-check the location details in your appointment confirmation email:
- Algeria
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Gabon
- Gambia
- Ghana
- Ivory Coast
- Kenya
- Madagascar
- Mauritius
- Morocco
- Seychelles
- South Africa
- Tunisia
The following visa application centres transitioned from being operated by TLScontact to VFS Global on 5 November 2024:
- Cyprus (North)
- France
- Iraq
- Israel
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Lebanon
- the Occupied Palestinian Territories
- Tajikistan
- Turkey
- Ukraine
- Uzbekistan
The following visa application centres transitioned from being operated by TLScontact to VFS Global on 19 November 2024:
- Angola
- Botswana
- Cameroon
- Egypt
- Ethiopia
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- Nigeria
- Rwanda
- Senegal
- Sierra Leone
- Tanzania
- Turkmenistan
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
From 4 December 2024, VFS Global will operate visa application centres in these locations:
- Albania
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus (South)
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Germany
- Ireland
- Italy
- Netherlands
- Russia
- Serbia
- Spain
- Switzerland
From 14 January 2025, VFS Global will operate visa application centres in the following locations:
- Armenia
- Finland
- Georgia
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Kosovo
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Macedonia
- Malta
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovenia
- Sweden
Other locations will be added to the list over time, so it’s a good idea to subscribe to updates on this page to stay informed about any changes that may affect you. We will also keep this page updated.
5. Changes for Applications Inside the UK
For those applying within the UK, the commercial partner responsible for UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) changed from Sopra Steria to TLScontact on 15 October 2024. Fortunately, this change will not impact the decision on your application, processing times, or the availability of appointments, so you do not need to take any specific action.
6. Final Thoughts on the Changes to UK Visa Application Centres
While these changes may seem significant, they are designed to ensure a smooth and efficient visa application process. By staying informed and following the guidance provided by UKVI, you can navigate these changes with ease. Keep an eye on your email for any updates, and make sure to follow the instructions provided to avoid any delays in your application.
7. Contact our Immigration Barristers
For expert and assistance with your UK visa application, contact our immigration barristers on 0203 617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.
