In a significant move to streamline the UK visa application process, the British government has announced that VFS Global will take over visa services from TLScontact in 26 new countries across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.
This transition, which started in September 2024 and will continue until January 2025, aims to enhance the visa application experience for applicants in these regions.
Countries Affected by the Change
The British government confirmed that VFS Global, a commercial partner specializing in visa outsourcing and technology services, will replace TLScontact as the affected countries’ primary operator of Visa Application Centers (VACs). Notably, regions outside of Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia will not be impacted by this transition.
Phase 1: From October 22, 2024, VFS Global will begin operating VACs in the following countries:
- Algeria
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Gabon
- Gambia
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Madagascar
- Mauritius
- Morocco
- Seychelles
- South Africa
- Tunisia
Phase 2: Additionally, from November 5, 2024, VFS Global will operate VACs in:
- Cyprus (North)
- France
- Iraq
- Israel
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Lebanon
- Occupied Palestinian Territories
- Tajikistan
- Turkey
- Ukraine
- Uzbekistan
Apart from the above-mentioned countries the UK Govt has already shifted the visa application centre in Belgium now operated by VFS Global.
This switch to VFS Global is part of the UK government’s broader effort to improve the accessibility and efficiency of visa services for international travellers.
VFS Global’s Role

As the new commercial partner, VFS Global will operate Visa Application Centers (VACs) in the specified countries. These centres will provide services such as accepting visa applications, collecting biometrics, and returning passports.
Impact on UK Visa Applicants
For applicants in these 26 countries, the change in visa centre management means new procedures to follow. However, UK authorities have reassured applicants that this transition will not impact the outcome of their applications or the time it takes for decisions to be made.
What This Means for UK Visa Applicants
If you are applying for a UK visa from one of the affected countries, you will soon receive email communications from both TLScontact and VFS Global. These emails will provide detailed instructions on how to proceed with your visa application.
Key Points for Applicants
1. Appointment Bookings
If you have already booked an appointment at a TLScontact-managed centre, you should attend your appointment as usual. Make sure to double-check the address provided in your confirmation email.
2. Mandatory User Pay (MUP) Fee
If you decide to change your appointment during this transition, you may be required to pay the MUP fee again. The UK government advises applicants to contact TLScontact for a refund if this fee is charged twice.
3. No Impact on Visa Decisions
The British government has emphasized that this change in service providers will not affect the processing time or decision-making process for visa applications.
What This Means for UK Visa Services
The transition to VFS Global is aimed at improving UK visa services globally. With VFS Global’s experience, applicants in 26 countries can expect more efficient and user-friendly processes.
This shift is likely to enhance access to services, including improved customer support, online tools, and flexible appointment options. Applicants should stay informed and follow updated procedures from VFS Global and TLScontact.
Changes to Visa and Citizenship Services Inside the UK
As of October 15, 2024, the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) provider has shifted from Sopra Steria to TLScontact. This transition may temporarily impact appointment availability, but applicants do not need to take any immediate action.
The UK government has assured that this change will not affect the outcome of your application or the processing time for receiving a decision.
Final Words
As VFS Global takes over UK visa services in 26 countries, applicants should monitor emails for updates. The transition won’t impact visa decisions or processing times. Follow the provided guidance to ensure smooth navigation of the updated procedures without any added stress.
Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Google News for the latest travel news and updates!