UKVCAS stands for ‘UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services’. It’s the system for processing immigration applications made from within the UK for further leave to remain, including all extension applications, and any switching between visas, as well as applications for both settlement and citizenship.
Under UKVCAS, you will attend a single appointment to have your identity confirmed, enrol any biometric information that may be required, and submit your documentation either uploading them into the UKVCAS online service, or by having them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment (see below).
What is UKVCAS?
The UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) is the official system used by applicants to complete biometric enrolment and submit supporting documents for UK visa, settlement, or citizenship applications.
Applicants receive instructions to book a UKVCAS appointment after completing their online application form and paying the necessary fees through the UKVI portal. During the appointment, biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph, is collected, and applicants upload or provide original documents to support their application. Some premium appointments offer additional services, such as document checking.
Key risks include failing to book an appointment within the required timeframe, which may lead to delays or rejection of the application. Providing incorrect or incomplete documents is another common issue, potentially resulting in refusal. Applicants must carefully follow the guidance provided by UKVI and ensure all documents are accurate and up to date. Booking appointments early and double-checking documentation can help reduce stress and improve the likelihood of a successful application. Professional advice may be beneficial for those with more detailed requirements.
How do I book a UKVCAS appointment through UKVCAS?
Not all immigration applications are processed through UKVCAS. When you submit your application, you will be informed whether you need to use UKVCAS services and how to proceed with booking an appointment.
Appointments can be booked online via the official UKVCAS website or through the GOV.UK portal. Availability depends on your chosen service point, and options may include standard appointments, same-day appointments, or premium slots outside regular working hours, such as evenings and weekends.
You can also select between standard, priority, or super priority processing for an additional fee. These services allow applicants to expedite their application, with super priority typically offering a decision within 24 hours.
When booking, you will enter your postcode to search for available appointments at the nearest service location. If no suitable slots are available, you can modify your search by selecting a different service point or entering a different postcode to find appointments in other areas.
If you need further assistance, you can contact UKVCAS directly through their online enquiry form or call their support team. Ensure you check the latest guidance and availability on the GOV.UK website to avoid delays and ensure a smooth application process.
What happens at a UKVCAS appointment?
When you attend your UKVCAS appointment, you will need to take your appointment confirmation email, your passport or travel document, as well as any supporting documents that have not already been uploaded online.
You will be provided with a list of supporting documents you need to provide when you submit your visa, settlement or citizenship application.
If your application includes family members, you must all go to your UKVCAS appointment together. Children under 16 must go to the appointment with the person named as the responsible adult on their application.
At your appointment you will be asked to provide any required biometric information in specially equipped self-service booths. This comprises a digital photograph of your face, a scan of your fingerprints and a capture of your digital signature. This information will need to be provided as part of the process for various different types of applications.
Further, where you have not already uploaded your documentation in support, you will need to have your supporting documentation digitised and checked. Finally, you will need to confirm that you are happy to send your application to UKVI.
Please note that you will not get a decision on your application at your UKVCAS appointment. How long a decision takes will depend on what you have applied for, although in many cases this will be around 8 weeks, unless you have paid for a priority service to a get faster decision when you submitted your application.
Document scanning service
In the event that you don’t want to, or have struggled to, upload your documents online yourself, UKVCAS can scan and upload all of your supporting documents for you during your appointment. As part of the document scanning service, UKVCAS staff will scan everything in front of you and give you back all of your documents once complete.
It is available for appointments at one of the 6 core sites for a fee of £45 per applicant. This must be paid prior to the appointment. It is a flat rate, fixed at £45 regardless of how many documents are scanned for the application.
If you have booked an appointment at an enhanced service point or premium lounge, or are using a mobile pop-up or VIP visit service, the document scanning service is included as part of that appointment and the additional charge for scanning does not apply.
The document checking service is also available at a cost of £35 per person to check that you have correctly uploaded your documents in advance of your appointment,
To use this service you must upload your documents through the UKVCAS website at least two working days before your appointment date. If you have booked an appointment at an enhanced service point the document checking service is included in the price of that appointment.
What if I need the services of an interpreter?
UKVCAS does not provide in-house interpreters during appointments. Applicants who require language support must arrange for their own interpreter to accompany them to their UKVCAS appointment. The interpreter must be fluent in both the applicant’s language and English to ensure accurate communication.
It is important to notify UKVCAS during the booking process if you will be bringing an interpreter. Some service points may have specific guidelines or requirements for interpreters, such as providing identification. Failure to arrange for adequate interpretation can lead to misunderstandings or delays in processing your application.
Interpreters are only there to facilitate communication and are not allowed to offer legal advice or assistance with completing applications. For more extensive language support or advice on your application, you should seek professional assistance from a solicitor or regulated immigration adviser.
When booking an appointment, check the UKVCAS website or contact their support team for any specific guidance on interpreter requirements at your chosen service point. Planning ahead ensures the interpreter meets all necessary criteria, helping to make your appointment run smoothly and ensuring your application process is not hindered by language barriers.
UKVCAS FAQs
What is UKVCAS?
UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services) is a system that allows applicants to complete biometric enrolment and submit supporting documents for UK visa, settlement, and citizenship applications.
Do I need to use UKVCAS?
Not all applications require UKVCAS. You will be informed during your visa application process if you need to use their services and how to book an appointment.
How do I book an appointment?
Appointments can be booked online via the UKVCAS website. You can search for available slots at your nearest service point by entering your postcode.
Are there free appointments available?
Yes, some core service points offer free appointments. However, demand is very high, so availability may be limited.
What is the cost of biometric enrolment?
The biometric enrolment fee is £19.20 and is included in your visa, settlement, or citizenship application fee.
What are the different types of UKVCAS centres?
UKVCAS centres include core service points, enhanced service points, and premium lounges, each offering different levels of service and associated fees.
Can I get a same-day appointment?
Yes, same-day and next-day appointments are available at an additional cost, starting at £100 per person, depending on availability.
What is the Premium Lounge service?
The Premium Lounge in London offers a personalised experience with refreshments, Wi-Fi, and newspapers, costing £200 during office hours and £260 outside office hours.
Can UKVCAS come to my location?
Yes, UKVCAS offers pop-up services for groups of 10 or more applicants and a VIP service for individuals, providing biometric enrolment and document processing at a location of your choice. Fees for these services are provided upon request.
How can I contact UKVCAS for help?
You can reach out to UKVCAS through their online enquiry form or the contact details provided on their official website.
Glossary
Author
Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.
She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.
Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals
