The UK government has recently announced significant changes to its visa application services, which will impact applicants both inside and outside the UK. At Aman Solicitors, we are dedicated to helping our clients navigate these changes smoothly and with confidence.
What’s Changing?
The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department operates its visa application centres in the UK and overseas through commercial partners. Currently, the government is transitioning from one commercial partner to another, which may affect your visa application process.
For many applicants, this means that while you may start your visa application with one commercial partner, you might finish it with another. Here’s what you need to know about these upcoming changes.
Visa Applications Outside the UK
Between September 2024 and January 2025, several UK visa application centres will change operators. The commercial provider responsible for managing visa applications in certain regions will switch from TLScontact to VFS Global.
As of 3 October 2024, the visa application centre in Belgium is already being managed by VFS Global. Additional changes will follow:
- From 22 October 2024, VFS Global will manage visa centres in locations across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, including Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, and more.
- From 5 November 2024, more centres in countries such as France, Turkey, Ukraine, and Israel will transition to VFS Global.
While these changes may alter the service provider for visa applications, it’s important to note that this will not affect the decision-making process or the time it takes to receive a decision.
If your application is impacted by these changes, you will receive email notifications from both TLScontact and VFS Global. If you’ve already booked an appointment with TLScontact, attend it as planned.
Visa Applications Inside the UK
For applications made within the UK, the commercial partner responsible for UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services will change on 15 October 2024 from Sopra Steria to TLScontact.
- If you have already booked an appointment before this date, you do not need to take any additional action.
- All appointments after 15 October will be managed by TLScontact.
Again, this change will not impact the outcome of your application, the timeframe for receiving a decision, or the availability of appointments.
How Aman Solicitors Can Help
We understand that changes in the visa application process can be confusing and stressful. At Aman Solicitors, we’re here to guide you through every step of your UK visa journey. Whether you’re applying from overseas or within the UK, our team of immigration law experts is ready to assist with any questions you may have and ensure your application is handled efficiently.
If you need support or advice on these changes or help with your visa application, contact us today:
📞 020 8507 7737
🌐 Visit Aman Solicitors
Don’t let these changes cause unnecessary worry—let our experienced team make your visa application process smooth and stress-free.