The United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has announced a key change in its visa application process for Nigeria, shifting from TLScontact to VFS Global as the official commercial partner for visa services. The transition, part of a larger global shift, will take effect on November 19, 2024.
According to the official UK government website, visa application centres (VACs) operate with commercial partners to handle application submissions on behalf of UKVI. In Nigeria, this change means that from mid-November, VFS Global will oversee the management of visa application centres, a role previously held by TLScontact. This move aligns Nigeria with other regions like North Cyprus, France, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Tajikistan, Turkey, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan, all of which will also be transitioning to VFS Global from November 5, 2024.
Nigerians applying for UK visas are encouraged to stay informed throughout this transition period. Applicants should expect emails from both TLScontact and VFS Global, notifying them of changes. It’s crucial to verify emails carefully, ensuring messages are from valid addresses ending in @tlscontact.com or @vfsglobal.com, to avoid scams or phishing attempts.
The UK government has also advised applicants to pay close attention to appointment details. Individuals who have paid the mandatory User Pay (MUP) fees to TLScontact may need to pay these fees again if they reschedule their appointments under VFS Global. The shift to a new commercial partner may also lead to adjustments in VAC locations and operating hours. Applicants should check the latest information on these logistical changes to ensure a smooth application process.
However, it’s essential to note that this transition only impacts the service provider; it will not affect how applications are processed or the time it takes for applicants to receive a decision. The UKVI’s decision-making process remains centralized and unchanged by the switch to VFS Global.
This shift in service providers reflects the UKVI’s efforts to streamline operations worldwide, aiming to improve accessibility and efficiency in visa application processes. For Nigerian applicants, being vigilant during this transition is key to avoiding any disruptions or confusion.
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