Travellers applying for UK visas should be aware of significant changes to the management of visa application centres worldwide.
According to TravelBiz, starting from September 2024 through January 2025, the UK government will transition to new commercial partners in certain regions, affecting visa applicants in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.
This update comes as part of an effort to streamline visa services.
However, reports note that it may impact applicants who are currently in the process of applying for a visa. The recent changes will require applicants to be vigilant and informed.
Changes Noted
Details inform that starting October 15th 2024, the partner for UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services will change from Sopra Steria to TLScontact. Hence, appointments scheduled on or after this date will occur at TLScontact service points.
While there may be limited availability initially, no action is required from applicants at this time.
Similar to international applications, these changes will not impact the decision on your application or the processing times.
Transitioning Service Providers
Reports provide that in some regions, the current provider, TLScontact, will change to VFS Global. This means applicants may start their visa application with TLScontact and finish it with VFS Global.