Latest updates on Visa Application Centres in India

As the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact visa applications and travel worldwide, Visa Application Centres (VACs) are undergoing a phased return to service, with many offering additional services to help tackle the backlog of pending cases.

With this in mind, Smith Stone Walters would like to provide an update on the current situation regarding Visa Application Centres in India.

Which VACs in India are open?

Visa Application Centres in India are run by VFS Global, a commercial partner engaged by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to provide UK visa services abroad. Many of the centres in India have resumed service, however local government guidelines are updated regularly in response to the epidemiological situation in each area, therefore some centres may still be subject to closures or reduced service capacity.

For this reason, Smith Stone Walters would recommend all applicants check the VFS Global website for the most up to date information on VAC opening hours, or consult a SSW advisor.

Faster processing times at selected VACs

For those than need to obtain a visa quickly, selected service points are also offering a priority service, with a turnaround time of five to seven days. Priority service is currently available at the following locations:

• New Delhi
• Kolkata
• Mumbai South
• Chennai

For applicants working to very tight deadlines, a Super Priority service with a turnaround time of 24 hours is available at the New Delhi centre only.

On Demand Mobile Visa Service

For those who are unable to attend a VAC appointment, VFS Global is now offering an On Demand Mobile Visa service, which allows applicants to go through the entire visa application process without leaving their home.

This tailored service involves VFS Global staff visiting your home or office to accept your application and take all the required biometric information using specialised equipment they bring with them.

This one-stop visa application service is available for individual or group applicants, and costs will depend on the size of your group and your location. The On Demand Mobile Visa service is only available for the Mumbai South, Chennai, New Delhi and Bengaluru centres.

After the decision has been made on your application, VFS Global will arrange the return of your documents and passports directly to you at home or at work, via a return courier service.

Contact the Smith Stone Walters Mumbai office

If you need advice or assistance with applying for a UK visa from India, the Smith Stone Walters team in Mumbai can help.

Our dedicated immigration consultants will support you every step of the way, from initial consultation to delivery of your visa, making the process as stress-free as possible.

To speak to a member of the team, please call the Mumbai office on +91 22 4905 5632, or email info.india@smithstonewalters.com.