The UK visa application process in Ghana is undergoing a significant change. Starting October 22, 2024, VFS Global will become the new visa application supplier, replacing TLScontact.
Background
Previously, TLScontact managed UK visa applications in Ghana. However, the need for improved services and efficiency led to the switch. The change aims to enhance the overall visa application experience for applicants.
VFS Global will now handle UK visa applications in Ghana. The new Visa Application Centre (VAC) is located on the Mezzanine Floor, Grand Oyeeman Building, South Liberation Link, Accra. This new location promises to provide faster and more efficient services. In addition, the switch will also introduce shorter biometric and application submission times.
The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) oversees the United Kingdom’s global network of visa application centers. In 2023, the UK granted a total of 3,287,404 visas, which includes various types of visas such as visitor, work, and study visas. While the exact number of Ghanaian applicants is not specified, the increase in grants reflects growing interest in UK travel.
Impact on UK visa applicants
This change will affect current and future UK visa applicants. Those who have already begun their applications with TLScontact will receive a notification via email. The email will provide instructions on how to proceed. More importantly, the switch will not affect visa application decisions, processing times, or prices. This reassurance aims to ensure a smooth transition for applicants.
The transition to VFS Global for UK visa applications in Ghana brings several improvements in service. For instance, biometric submission times will be significantly shorter. Additionally, the average passport collection time will be around 20 minutes. These enhancements aim to provide a more efficient and stress-free experience for applicants. Furthermore, VFS Global will offer clearer information to distinguish between free services and paid services.
For applicants who have already started their applications with TLScontact, the transition process will be seamless. TLScontact will securely transfer files and documents to VFS Global. This ensures that all UK visa applications are processed without interruption. Applicants can rest assured that their documents will be handled with care and confidentiality.
TLScontact applications on or before November 15, 2024 still awaiting decision will be properly transferred to VFS Global. According to a VFS Global press release, they will contact the applicants once their documents or passports are ready for dispatch.
The TLScontact visa application center will officially close on November 15, 2024.
Statements from officials
Marc Owen, UKVI Director for Visa, Status and Information Services, emphasized the importance of the new VAC. He stated that the transition aims to provide a better experience for visa applicants in Ghana. Other officials from UKVI and VFS Global have also expressed their support for the switch.
“The opening of our new VAC in Ghana marks an exciting milestone in the provision of a world-class UK visa operation, one which will provide important digital innovations and convenience to customers around the world.”
The change to VFS Global as the new visa application supplier in Ghana marks a significant step in improving the UK visa application process. With better services and a more efficient application process, applicants can look forward to a better experience.
Photo: Freepik
