Important Updates for UK Visa Applications: VFS Global Takes Over.

Obtaining an appointment to provide your biometrics.

As you navigate the process of applying for a UK Visa, it's essential to understand the steps you need to take, including proving your identity.

This is done by attending a Visa Application Centre (VAC), which operates under a contract with the UK Government. It's important to remember that these centres are run by a private company and have no influence over your visa decision; their role is limited to taking your biometrics.

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For the past decade, this service has been handled by TLS, but as of November 5, the UK government has awarded the contract to VFS Global. VFS already manages visa application processes for many Schengen countries, making this transition a significant change for Turkish citizens seeking to visit the UK.

The 5 Application Centres and Addresses

Visa applications will now be processed at the following locations:

Adana	Yenikent Sabuncu Business Center, Block E, Tiling Mah. 600024 Sok. No:3, Inner Door:13, Seyhan, Adana (76.50 pounds extra charge)
Ankara	Farilya Business Center, Kızılırmak District, Ufuk University Street No:8, Floor:1, No:4, Çankaya
Antalya	Oriental Garage Culture and Trade Center, Muratpaşa, Çaybaşi Mah. Cebesoy Cad., No:1, Inner Door No:307 (76.50 pounds extra charge)
Istanbul	Astoria Business Center, Floor: B1, Section: M40, Esentepe, İstanbulişli
Izmir	Aege Perla Shopping Mall, Çınarlı, Ozan Abay Street., No:8, Floor:1, No:112, Accommodation (76.50 pounds extra charge)

Location

Note: The previously available centre in Bursa, is no longer available under VFS.

Key Details to Remember

• Visa centres are advertised as open from 09:00 to 17:00 BUT collection of passport is only between 15.00 – 17.00

• An additional fee of 76.50 pounds will apply for applications submitted from Adana, Antalya, and Izmir.

• Completing the visa application form at gov.uk is essential before making your appointment.

• Visa fees vary based on the type of visa; for instance, a 6-month multi-entry tourist visa costs approximately $160.

• You can upload your documents online up to one day before your biometric appointment.

Additional Services Offered by VFS

While VFS Global aims to serve visa applicants, they also provide various premium services for added convenience, albeit at an extra cost (these costs are correct aas of November 2024 but are of course likely to rise):

• Document scanning service: 1500 TRY

• Keep My Passport With Me Service: 4150 TRY

• Prime Time Appointment price: 3810 TRY

• Shipping of passport: 480 TRY

One of the challenges of the VFS contract is the control they exert over appointment availability. Once you submit your visa application form, securing an appointment within the next day or two can be difficult unless you opt for their paid appointment services. They understand that many applicants prefer quick service and are willing to pay for it, offering several premium categories that allow for next-day appointments.

Stay Informed

Visa application requirements can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for, making it crucial to stay informed. We encourage applicants to double-check their documents and prepare well in advance to ensure a smooth application process.

For additional information or assistance, contact your nearest VFS centre.

VFS

We have a Google rating of Outstanding, and specialise in applicants who have previously been refused, or have difficult circumstances.

For anyone interested in applying we recommend taking our phone consultancy service, where we often provide enough information to allow customers to apply themselves without any further consultation charges.

Consultation

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only, and should not be taken as legal advice. Detailed and comprehensive research is completed but once published any commentary, quotes, societal direction and legal references may not be remain current and accurate. Subsequently, English Visa Life cannot accept responsibility for loss which may arise from information contained in this blog. For assistance in translating and certifying necessary documents, in addition to accurately reflecting your responses in English and cataloguing supporting documents please don’t hesitate to contact UK Turkey Life to assist in your application. English Visa Life is operating under a registered trader license, Izmir, Turkey.