Immigration Lawyer. Visa For U.K

Important Changes to UK Visa Application Services – What You Need to Know

The UK government has announced significant updates to its visa application process, which will affect applicants both inside and outside the UK. At Afsar Williams Solicitors, we are committed to helping our clients understand these changes and navigate them with confidence.

What’s Changing?

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department currently manages visa applications through commercial partners. However, the government is in the process of transitioning from one service provider to another, which may impact how and where you apply for your visa.

For some applicants, this means that you might begin your visa application with one provider but complete it with another. Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s changing:

Visa Applications Outside the UK

From September 2024 to January 2025, the responsibility for managing visa application centres in various countries will shift from TLScontact to VFS Global.

From 3 October 2024, the visa application centre in Belgium will be managed by VFS Global.
From 22 October 2024, VFS Global will take over operations in parts of Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, including key locations like Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa.
From 5 November 2024, additional centres in France, Turkey, Ukraine, Israel, and more will transition to VFS Global.

It’s important to note that while the service provider may change, this will not affect the processing time or decision-making process for your application.

If your application is affected by these changes, you will receive email notifications from both TLScontact and VFS Global. If you have already booked an appointment with TLScontact, you can proceed as scheduled.

Visa Applications Inside the UK

For applications made within the UK, the commercial partner for UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services will change from Sopra Steria to TLScontact on 15 October 2024.

If you have already booked an appointment before this date, you do not need to take any further action.
From 15 October 2024 onwards, all new appointments will be managed by TLScontact.

Again, this transition will not impact the outcome of your application, processing times, or appointment availability.

How Afsar Williams Solicitors Can Help

We understand that changes to the visa application process can feel overwhelming. At Afsar Williams Solicitors, our experienced immigration law team is here to simplify the process and support you every step of the way.

Whether you’re applying from within the UK or overseas, we’ll ensure your application is handled smoothly and efficiently.

If you have any questions about these changes or need assistance with your visa application, get in touch with us today — we’re here to help!