From TLScontact to VFS Global: a strategic change
Since 2014 has TLS contacta subsidiary of the Teleperformance group, was the main service provider for handling visa applications to the UK. By the end of 2023, this responsibility will be transferred to VFS Globala major player in the visa and citizenship management sector for many countries. With this new contract, VFS Global will support 240 centers of Visa and Citizenship Application Service (VCAS) distributed in 142 countries around the world.
Having a UK visa: what you need to know in 2024
The UK says the change aims to optimize the visa applicant experience, including reducing waiting times for appointments and offering a passport collection time of just 20 minutes.
The countries affected by this transition
The transition to VFS Global will take place gradually between September 2024 and January 2025 in specific regions: Africa, Europe, Middle East and Central Asia. Other regions of the world are not affected by this change.
From 22 October 2024, visa application centers in African countries such as South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia and others will come under the management of VFS Global. On November 5, 2024, it is European countries such as France, Cyprus, as well as Middle Eastern countries such as Israel and Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
What changes for visa applicants
Visa applicants will receive instructions via email from TLS contact and off VFS Global about the steps to follow. If you have already made an agreement with TLS contactno worries: existing agreements will be honored. However, if your agreement changes, additional fees may apply, with the option of refunding upon request.
It is important to note that this change of provider will not affect the decision on visa applications or the processing time. The process remains the same, only the logistics management evolves.
The introduction of the electronic travel authorization (ETA) from 2025
Alongside this change of provider, the UK is gradually introducing an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for currently visa-exempt travellers. This measure aims to strengthen border security and simplify entry formalities for visitors.
UK in April 2025: Don’t leave without your ETA!
From January 2025, citizens of 49 countries, including Canada, the US, Australia and more, will need to obtain an ETA to travel to the UK. Then, from April 2025, this obligation will be extended to citizens of 34 European countries, including France, Germany and Spain.
These changes are part of the UK’s efforts to modernize and secure its immigration system, while providing a better experience for travelers and visa applicants. For those affected, it is important to stay informed and follow the instructions from the new management centers to ensure a smooth transition.