Update on UK visa application services overseas
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has provided more information on upcoming changes to UK visa application services.
UK visa application centres are operated by commercial partners on behalf of UKVI. 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.
Key dates
The key dates for the handover are as follows:
- From 19 November 2024, the commercial provider changed in Angola, Botswana, Cameroon, Egypt, Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
- From 4 December 2024, the commercial provider will change in Albania, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Russia, Serbia, Spain and Switzerland.
- From 14 January 2025, the commercial provider will change in Armenia, Finland, Georgia, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Kosovo, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Sweden.
More locations and dates will be added to this page.
Impact on visa applications
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.
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.
