VFS Global & UK Visa Applications

If you’re applying for a UK visa from overseas, you may need to use the services of VFS Global as part of your application.

In this guide, we explain what VFS Global is and what its role is in the UK visa application process.

 

What is VFS Global?

 

VFS Global, also known as “Visa Facilitation Services Global”, is an outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments worldwide, tasked with managing the administrative tasks related to visa and other consular services for its client governments.

With over 3000 application centres in countries across 5 continents, VFS Global serves the interests of 70 client governments, including the UK. Aimed at enhancing and streamlining customer experience, the company facilitates the making of visa applications from overseas.

VFS Global does not play any part in the decision-making process for UK visas and has no influence or authority over granting or refusing a visa application. Adjudication remains the responsibility of the relevant department of each respective government, which in the UK is “UK Visas and Immigration” (UKVI). The role of VFS Global is to act as an official partner of UKVI in the administration of certain UK visa applications being made from overseas.

 

Where does VFS Global handle UK applications?

 

VFS Global has expanded its services to manage UK visa applications in numerous countries worldwide. Between September 2024 and January 2025, the UK government transitioned from TLScontact to VFS Global as the commercial partner for visa application centres in various regions, including parts of Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.

Applicants are advised to confirm specific locations when making their application; at the time of publishing, VFS Global operate the following for UK applications:

 

Country	Country	Country
Algeria	Albania	Andorra
Angola	Anguilla	Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina	Armenia	Aruba
Australia	Austria	Azerbaijan
Bahamas	Bahrain	Bangladesh
Barbados	Belarus	Belgium
Benin	Bermuda	Bhutan
Bolivia	Bonaire	Bosnia & Herzegovina
Botswana	Brazil	British Virgin Islands
Brunei	Bulgaria	Burkina Faso
Burundi	Cambodia	Cameroon
Canada	Cape Verde	Cayman Islands
Central African Republic	Chad	Chile
China	Colombia	Comoros
Republic of the Congo	Democratic Republic of the Congo	Costa Rica
Cote d’Ivoire	Croatia	Curacao
Cyprus (South)	Czech Republic	Denmark
Djibouti	Dominica	Dominican Republic
Ecuador	El Salvador	Egypt
Equatorial Guinea	Eritrea	Estonia
Eswatini	Ethiopia	Fiji
Finland	France	French Guiana
Gabon	Gambia	Georgia
Germany	Ghana	Greece
Greenland	Grenada	Guatemala
Guinea	Guinea-Bissau	Guyana
Haiti	Honduras	Hong Kong
Hungary	Iceland	India
Indonesia	Iran	Iraq
Ireland	Israel	Italy
Jamaica	Japan	Jordan
Kazakhstan	Kenya	Kosovo
Kuwait	Kyrgyzstan	Laos
Latvia	Lebanon	Lesotho
Liberia	Libya	Liechtenstein
Lithuania	Luxembourg	Madagascar
Malawi	Malaysia	Maldives

 

 

VFS Global overseas visa application process

 

When applying for a UK visa from overseas, you will need to complete an online application with UKVI and pay the relevant fee. As part of the application process, you may also be required to schedule and attend an in-person appointment at a VFS Global overseas visa application centre (VAC) to prove your identity and enrol your biometric information.

When enrolling your biometric information, you must provide a scan of your fingerprints and a digitised photograph of your face, as well as a digital image of your signature.

For more information on the application process when applying for a UK visa from overseas, search online for “VFS Global for Individuals”, where this will take you directly to a useful online tool on the VFS Global website. By inserting your country of residence and destination country (in this case the UK), this will signpost you to the following links:

 

Applying for a visa

You will need to visit the UKVI website at GOV.UK to apply for a UK visas from overseas. There is a link on the VFS Global website to the visa application page. There is also a useful step-by-step guide to walk you through the application process, including researching the type of visa that you will need to enter the UK.

 

Finding a visa centre

Having entered your country of origin and the UK as your destination country, the link for finding a visa centre will automatically show you the nearest VACs based on your location, together with their opening hours. Depending on your location, you may be given the option to select which type of VAC you would like to attend. This could include, for example, a premium application centre, a temporary enrolment location or an application support centre, although there are additional costs involved in attending a premium application centre. After selecting the type of centre you wish to attend, you will be directed to the VFS Global website to book an appointment.

 

Booking an appointment

Once you have completed your visa application at GOV.UK and selected the VAC you would like to attend, you will need to schedule an appointment so that your biometric data can be captured. You will have up to 240 days to attend an appointment to provide your biometrics and complete the visa application process. You can change your biometric booking up to 24 hours before your scheduled appointment and you can also rearrange your appointment more than once if you need to.

 

Attending a visa centre

You must attend your VAC appointment in person and cannot send someone in your place, where you will need to personally enrol your biometric information, as this is entirely unique to you. Without biometrics, your visa application cannot be processed. If you are applying on behalf of a child under 5, they must also attend the VAC to have their photo taken, although they will not need to provide their fingerprints or signature. Children under 16 need to be accompanied by a responsible adult, and will be asked to provide a photo and their fingerprints, but not their signature.

 

Paying for premium services

Having started the visa application process, you can return to the VFS Global website with your reference number to take advantage of any of the premium services on offer. These additional services are designed to make the UK visa application process faster, easier or more relaxed and comfortable, although paying for priority processing or any other optional service does not mean that your application is more likely to be successful. However, priority and other premium services are not available in all VAC locations, where you can use an online tool on the VFS Global website to determine the available services for your selected application centre.

 

Submitting your supporting documents

There may be different options available to you here, depending on your location, including self-uploading the documents needed in support of your visa application or paying for a document scanning assistance service at your VAC appointment. There may also be the option of paying for a postal scanning service. Each UK type of visa requires different documentation, so you must carefully check your visa-type and prepare your documents in advance of making your application.

 

Tracking your visa application

Having enrolled your biometric information at a VAC, the processing time for UK visas can vary, depending on your visa-type. For example, a non-settlement visa can take up to 3 weeks, while a settlement visa can take up to 24 weeks, although you may have opted to pay for a faster decision. For both standard and priority processing times, you should be able to track the progress of your visa online.

 

 

When does VFS Global release available biometrics appointments?

 

VAC appointments are usually made available for booking by VFS Global up to 90 days from the current date. If an online message is displayed which states “No Slots Available”, you should try again in a few days time. Additionally, you can only book one appointment per person, where no duplicate appointment will be permitted by the online system.

 

How do you book a biometrics appointment for VFS Global?

 

To book an appointment with VFS Global, you will need to select the VAC that you would like to attend, although the nearest location may be in another country. As with the UK visa application itself, you must book your VAC biometrics appointment online.

Having made an appointment, you must then carefully prepare the necessary documentation that you will need to take with you to that appointment, including:

 

• a printout of the appointment confirmation letter confirming your appointment details
• your passport or other valid travel document, with at least one page blank on both sides.

 

You may also need to attend with your supporting documents if the location you have selected includes document scanning assistance as part of a paid package. In these instances, you should refer to the document checklist that you received as part of your online application at GOV.UK for the documents you must provide for your visa-type.

You should bring the originals or good quality copies of your supporting documents to your appointment. You can submit photocopies of documents for scanning, but they must be clear, legible, preferably in colour and A4 size. If your documents are not in English, you may need to have translations prepared before you apply for a UK visa. You may also need additional documentation, depending on your circumstances, including:

 

• a recent UKVI guideline-compliant photo, if you are exempt from giving biometrics
• evidence of your permission to be in the country from which you are applying for your visa, if you are not a national of that country
• evidence of your sponsor’s leave to remain in the UK, if you are applying as a dependant.

 

 

What happens at the VFS Global biometrics appointment?

 

On the day of your appointment, you should arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. At this appointment, you will need to submit a scan of your fingerprints and a digitised photograph of your face, as well as a digital image of your normal signature.

A digital finger scanner will collect images of all 10 of your fingerprints. The fingerprint scanner uses no inks, liquids or chemicals and it will not mark your skin. However, you must ensure that your fingertips are free from any form of decoration, cuts, abrasions or any other markings, as these may affect your ability to provide acceptable scans.

A digital photograph must be taken of your full face, which must be clearly visible with no hair across your eyes. You cannot wear sunglasses or tinted spectacles. You will also not be allowed to wear a head covering, unless this is worn for religious or medical reasons.

 

Uploading documents to VFS Global for a UK visa

 

Unless you have paid for a document scanning assistance service, you will need to upload your supporting documents online as part of your UKVI visa application process.

After you have applied through GOV.UK for your UK visa, you can upload your documents yourself once you have booked your biometrics appointment with VFS Global. If you do not have all your documents immediately to hand, you can log back into your UKVI account and continue to upload documents until the day before your appointment.

If you wish to upload your supporting documents yourself, you should refer to the document checklist that you received as part of your online application and follow the instructions on the document upload pages. It is free of charge to self-upload, but you are responsible for submitting the correct supporting documents for your category of visa. You must also follow the document upload instructions carefully. You can submit photocopies of documents for uploading, but they must be clear, legible, preferably in colour and A4 size.

 

How do you use the VFS Global application tracking service?

 

Having submitted your UK visa application, paid the relevant fee and enrolled your biometric information at a VAC, you will receive an email update when your decision has been returned to the centre. In the interim, you can also track your visa application status online using the link on the VFS Global website. To access this service you will need to insert your last name and the reference number on the invoice/receipt issued by the VAC.

If you cannot easily access email, or would like more detailed tracking information about your visa application, you may also be able to get SMS updates sent directly to your mobile phone. You can check whether this service is available at the VAC you are visiting.

Checking the status of your UK visa decision is an important step in the application process, where this will allow you to stay informed and can give you an idea of how much longer you may have to wait for a decision. The standard and priority processing times are only guidelines. As such, if your application is not straightforward, a decision could take longer.

Importantly, if your application has been pending for longer than the average processing time when tracking your application status, you may be able to contact UKVI to address any issues or correct any errors to help get your visa application back on track.

Equally, by checking your UK visa application status, you can plan ahead and make any necessary arrangements. For example, if you receive notification that your application has been approved, you can start making travel plans or booking your UK accommodation.

 

Need assistance?

 

DavidsonMorris are UK immigration specialists. For expert guidance with your UK application, contact us.

 

VFS Global FAQs

 

What is VFS Global?

VFS Global is an official commercial partner of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), responsible for managing visa application centres worldwide. It provides services such as biometric enrolment, document submission, and optional priority processing.

 

Do I need to apply for a UK visa through VFS Global?

If you are applying for a UK visa from outside the UK, you will likely need to attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) run by VFS Global to provide biometric data and submit supporting documents. The application itself is submitted online through the UK government website before scheduling a VAC appointment.

 

What happens at a VFS Global Visa Application Centre?

At the VAC, you will provide fingerprints and a digital photograph, submit any required supporting documents, and may be offered optional services such as document scanning, premium lounges, and courier return of your passport.

 

How long does it take for a UK visa to be processed through VFS Global?

Processing times depend on the type of visa and whether you choose priority services. Standard processing for most visas takes around three weeks, while priority processing can reduce this to five working days. Super priority visas are usually processed within 24 hours.

 

Can I track my UK visa application with VFS Global?

VFS Global offers an online tracking service where you can check the status of your visa application. You may also receive email or SMS updates, depending on the service package selected.

 

What is the VFS Global Priority Visa Service?

This is an optional paid service that expedites the processing of your visa application. Standard priority visas are usually processed within five working days, while super priority applications can be completed in 24 hours.

 

What documents do I need to submit at the Visa Application Centre?

You may need to submit a passport, visa application form, appointment confirmation, biometric residence permit (if applicable), financial statements, proof of employment or studies, and any other documents required for your visa category.

 

What happens if my UK visa application is refused?

If your visa application is refused, UKVI will provide a decision letter outlining the reasons. You may be able to request an administrative review or reapply with additional supporting documents. Some applicants may also have the right to appeal, depending on their visa type.

 

Can I change my appointment with VFS Global?

You can usually reschedule or cancel your appointment through the VFS Global website, but cancellation policies may vary. Some services may be non-refundable.

 

What is the difference between VFS Global and TLScontact?

Both companies operate UK visa application centres, but VFS Global handles applications in most countries, while TLScontact manages applications in certain regions, such as Europe and China.

 

Can I get my passport delivered to my home after my visa decision?

VFS Global typically offers an optional courier return service, allowing applicants to receive their passport with the visa decision at their preferred address instead of collecting it in person.

 

Does VFS Global make visa decisions?

No, VFS Global only facilitates the visa application process. All decisions on visa applications are made by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), part of the UK Home Office.

 

Glossary

 

 

Term	Definition
VFS Global	A commercial partner of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) that manages visa application centres worldwide.
UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration)	The Home Office department responsible for visa processing, immigration enforcement, and border control in the UK.
Visa Application Centre (VAC)	A location operated by VFS Global where applicants submit biometric data and supporting documents for UK visa applications.
Biometric Data	Fingerprints and a digital photograph taken at a VAC as part of the UK visa application process.
Priority Visa Service	A paid service offered by VFS Global that expedites visa processing, usually within 5 working days.
Super Priority Visa Service	A fast-track option where visa applications are typically processed within 24 hours.
Standard Processing Time	The typical timeframe for processing UK visas, which varies depending on visa type and application volume.
Supporting Documents	Evidence submitted with a visa application, such as passports, financial statements, employment letters, and sponsorship documents.
Document Scanning Assistance	A VFS Global service that helps applicants upload required documents for UKVI review.
TLScontact	Another visa application service provider that manages UK visa applications in certain regions, alongside VFS Global.
Visa Decision Letter	A document issued by UKVI stating whether the visa application has been approved or refused.
Appeal Process	The legal process available to challenge a visa refusal, depending on the type of visa and the grounds for refusal.
Administrative Review	A request for UKVI to reconsider a visa refusal based on an error in decision-making.
Courier Return Service	An optional service allowing applicants to receive their passport and visa decision via courier delivery.
Walk-in Appointments	A paid service allowing applicants to submit biometric data at a VAC without a pre-booked appointment.
Visa Collection	The process of retrieving a passport with a visa decision from the VAC or via courier.
Sponsorship Documents	Employer-provided evidence required for work visa applications, including the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
Visa Fees	Charges applicable for different UK visa categories, payable during the application process.