Applying for a UK visa from the United States involves an online application, biometric enrolment, and document submission. However, the biometric process in the USA differs from other countries, and applicants must choose between Application Support Centres (ASCs) and VFS Premium Application Centres. This guide provides an overview of the UK visa application process from the USA.
1. Submitting Your UK Visa Application Online
The first step in the application process is completing the UK visa application form on the gov.uk website and paying the relevant visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (if applicable).
After submission, you will be prompted to book a biometric appointment at one of the designated centres in the USA. You must decide where to enrol your biometrics, either at an Application Support Centre (ASC) or a VFS Premium Application Centre.
At this appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken. Children under five are not required to provide fingerprints but must still attend an appointment.
2. Choosing Between ASCs and VFS Premium Application Centres
In the USA, applicants have two options for their biometric appointment:
- Application Support Centres (ASCs) – Free to use but with limited services.
- VFS Premium Application Centres – They offer additional services but require an extra fee.
The choice between these two depends on your needs, location, and whether you require premium services.
3. Application Support Centres (ASCs)
ASCs (or USCIS Application Support Centers) are run by the U.S. government and provide a free biometric enrollment service. There are 130 centres across the USA, and you should check the operating status of the centre that you intend to visit. However, you must follow additional steps to complete your application:
- Arrive on time for your scheduled appointment with your valid passport and appointment confirmation letter.
- After your biometrics are taken, your confirmation letter will be stamped.
- You must then mail your documents within five days to:
VFS Services USA Inc.
UKVI Scanning Hub
128 East 32nd St, Floor 4
New York, NY 10016
The VFS Global UKVI Visa Processing Hub, does not see any applicants either on walk in, or appointment basis
When sending your documents, ensure that you include:
- Your passport (with at least one blank visa page on both sides).
- Your visa application form.
- Your UPS pre-paid return shipping label (for the return of your passport).
Failure to follow these steps may cause delays or rejection of your application.
4. Additional Services Available for ASC Applicants
Although ASCs provide a free biometric service, applicants can still purchase additional services from VFS Global, including:
- Priority Visa Services – Faster processing for eligible applications.
- Courier Services – Secure return of your documents.
- Temporary Passport Retrieval – Allows you to access your passport while your visa is being processed.
Do note that Priority processing services must be paid before you attend the biometric appointment.
5. VFS Global Premium Application Centres
VFS Global operates Premium Application Centres across the USA, offering enhanced services for a fee. These centres include:
- Atlanta
- Boston
- Chicago
- Houston
- Los Angeles
- Miami
- New York
- San Francisco
- Seattle
- Washington, D.C.
VFS also operates Temporary Enrolment Locations in:
- Brooklyn
- Dallas
- Elizabeth
- Philadelphia
- San Jose
At VFS Premium Centres, applicants must purchase a premium service package in addition to their visa fee.
6. Additional Services at VFS Premium Centres
Premium packages vary based on services and processing times. Some include:
- Super Priority Service – Aims to provide a decision by the next business day.
- Priority Service – Shortens processing time to a few days.
However, service fees are non-refundable, even if the visa is refused or processing takes longer than expected.
7. Choosing the Best Visa Application Centre in the USA
Selecting a UK visa application centre depends on your location, budget, and need for premium services.
- ASCs are free but require applicants to handle document submission independently.
- VFS Premium Centres charge additional fees but offer convenience and faster processing.
Additionally, VFS centres offer a “Keep My Passport” service, allowing applicants to retain their passport for travel while their visa is processed.
8. Processing Times for UK Visa Applications in the USA
Visa processing times vary based on the type of visa and the demand at the time of application. The visa processing times for applications made outside the UK are:
- Standard visa processing takes up to 3 weeks.
- Family visa applications take up to 12 weeks.
- Priority and Super Priority services are available but limited.
Processing time begins after biometrics enrolment or once documents reach the UKVI scanning hub in New York.
Complex cases may cause delays, particularly if you have:
- A previous UK visa refusal.
- Immigration violations (such as overstaying in the UK).
- A criminal record in any country.
- A visa refusal from another country (e.g., USA, Canada, Schengen states).
If any of these apply, purchasing priority services may not speed up processing.
9. What Happens When Your UK Visa is Approved?
Once your UK visa application is approved, a visa vignette (sticker) will be placed in your passport. This vignette is valid for 90 days, allowing you to enter the UK.
If you cannot travel within this period, you can apply for a replacement vignette for £154.
Upon arrival in the UK, you will access your eVisa online under the new digital immigration system.
10. Updates on this guidance
The UK visa application process from the USA is subject to change. Before proceeding, ensure you review the latest official guidance on the UK Government website: Apply for a UK Visa in the USA.
How Whytecroft Ford Can Help
Contact us at +44 208 757 5751 or via our contact form for professional support with your UK immigration application.
