Changes to UK visa application services
The UK government has provided more information for applicants on upcoming changes to its visa application services.
UK visa application centres in the UK and overseas are operated by commercial partners (also known as ‘suppliers’) on behalf of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
The government is currently in the process of changing the commercial partner responsible for running its visa application centres, a move that will impact many applications made overseas and inside the UK.
For some applicants, this means you may start your visa application with one commercial partner and finish it with another commercial partner.
Applications made outside the UK
It was previously announced that, between September 2024 and January 2025, the commercial provider would change from TLScontact to VFS Global in some locations in Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Central Asia.
The visa application centre in Belgium, has been operated by VFS Global since 3 October 2024.
From 22 October 2024, VFS Global will operate visa application centres in the following locations:
- Algeria
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Gabon
- Gambia
- Ghana
- Ivory Coast
- Kenya
- Madagascar
- Mauritius
- Morocco
- Seychelles
- South Africa
- Tunisia
From 5 November 2024, VFS Global will operate visa application centres in these locations:
- Cyprus (North)
- France
- Iraq
- Israel
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Lebanon
- the Occupied Palestinian Territories
- Tajikistan
- Turkey
- Ukraine
- Uzbekistan
More locations and dates will be added to this page.
These changes will not affect the decision on an application or how long it takes to get a decision.
Those whose applications are affected will receive emails from TLScontact and VFS Global. Those who have already booked an appointment with TLScontact should attend the appointment as normal.
Applications made inside the UK
On 15 October 2024, the commercial partner for UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services will change from Sopra Steria to TLScontact. Appointments on or after 15 October will be at TLScontact service points.
You do not need to do anything.
This change will not affect:
- the decision on your application
- how long it takes to get a decision
- how many appointments are available.
Support with your UK visa application
If you have any questions about these changes or if you require support with a UK visa application, please contact Smith Stone Walters.
