The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has announced significant updates to its visa application services, including changes to commercial partners managing visa application centres both outside and within the UK. These updates are set to improve service efficiency and accessibility for applicants globally. 

Key Changes Outside the UK 

Between September 2024 and January 2025, the commercial partner in several international locations will transition from TLScontact to VFS Global. This change will affect visa application centres in parts of: 

• Africa 

• Europe 

• The Middle East 

• Central Asia 

What Applicants Need to Know: 

• Emails: Affected applicants will receive emails from TLScontact or VFS Global. Always check your inbox and junk folder for updates. 

• Appointments: If you have an appointment with TLScontact, attend as scheduled. If you switch to VFS Global, you may need to pay the Mandatory User Pay (MUP) fee again. 

• Temporary Disruptions: Some visa centres may have brief disruptions. Wait until VFS Global resumes operations to continue your application. 

Inside the UK: 

From 15 October 2024, the commercial partner changed from Sopra Steria to TLScontact. This does not affect the decision-making or processing times for applications. 

Next Steps:  

For updated addresses and opening hours, use the visa application centre locator. Stay subscribed to UKVI updates for more details. 

You can read the complete details here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/changes-to-the-commercial-partner-visa-application-services/changes-to-the-commercial-partner-visa-application-services