The UK is making significant changes to its visa application services, impacting processes both within and outside the country. A key shift involves transitioning from TLScontact to VFS Global as the commercial provider for visa application centers in various locations across Africa, Europe, and Asia between September 2024 and January 2025. Additionally, within the UK, TLScontact has replaced Sopra Steria as the partner for Visa and Citizenship Application Services from mid-October 2024. These updates aim to streamline the process without affecting application decisions or processing times.

For applicants, this transition means they might begin their process with one service provider and complete it with another. Those impacted will receive direct communication regarding any necessary steps. This change, however, does not alter the expected processing time or the decision outcomes for visa applications.

These adjustments are part of the UK government’s effort to enhance visa service delivery while ensuring that applicants experience minimal disruption during the transition. For further guidance, applicants can seek support from relevant service providers and stay updated on new developments to ensure a smooth application experience.

Between September 2024 and January 2025, the UK is transitioning its visa application services from TLScontact to VFS Global in several regions, including parts of Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. Notably, VFS Global took over operations in Belgium on October 3, 2024.

From 22 October 2024, VFS Global will operate visa application centres in the following locations:

1. Kenya
2. Algeria
3. Democratic Republic of the Congo
4. Gabon
5. Gambia
6. Morocco
7. Ghana
8. Madagascar
9. Mauritius
10. Ivory Coast
11. Seychelles
12. South Africa
13. Tunisia

From 5 November 2024, VFS Global will operate visa application centres in these locations:

1. Cyprus (North)
2. Iraq
3. Lebanon
4. Jordan
5. Kazakhstan
6. Kyrgyzstan
7. The Occupied Palestinian Territories
8. Turkey
9. Tajikistan
10. Ukraine
11. Uzbekistan
12. France