From 15 October 2024, significant changes will take effect regarding the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS). For those applying for visas or citizenship in the UK, it is essential to be aware of how these changes might affect their application process, particularly when it comes to biometric appointments and documentation submission. In this post, we discuss the upcoming changes to biometric appointments for in-country visa applications.
Transition from Sopra Steria to TLScontact
The UK Home Office has announced that as of 15 October 2024, TLScontact will replace Sopra Steria as the commercial partner responsible for biometric appointments and application processing for UK visas and citizenship. The change is part of an ongoing effort to improve the application experience. Applicants who have been using the UKVCAS system through Sopra Steria will now be required to transition to TLScontact.
In preparation for this shift, all biometric appointments booked through Sopra Steria must be completed by 14 October 2024.
Impact on Biometric Appointments in October 2024
A key point of concern during this transition is the temporary unavailability of biometric appointments. The UKVCAS has confirmed that no new biometric appointments will be released between now and 14 October 2024, unless other applicants cancel their appointments. This has created a shortage of appointment slots, with many applicants facing delays in their visa processing due to the inability to schedule biometrics enrolment.
As per TLScontact’s latest announcement on 10 October 2024 regarding appointment availability, applicants may book appointments ahead of the changeover date on 15 October, however, may find it difficult due to appointment shortages in high-demand locations. Appointments are available up to 30 days in advance, and new appointment slots are released every for all 30+ service points.
Consequences of Appointment Delays
For applicants who have not secured a biometric appointment before 14 October 2024, this temporary pause could significantly delay the processing of their visa or citizenship application. Even those who have paid for priority or super-priority services may face a waiting period of two weeks or more, as the transition between providers takes place. Unfortunately, this means that processing times will not begin until the applicant has completed their biometric appointment after 15 October.
For individuals who need to travel internationally during this period, the situation is even more complex. UK visa rules stipulate that an in-country application is automatically withdrawn if the applicant leaves the UK before their application is processed. Applicants are therefore advised to avoid international travel until their biometrics have been completed, as travelling before this stage could result in the withdrawal of their application and loss of the visa application fee.
Registering with TLScontact
Applicants will need to register with TLScontact to book their biometric appointments. Registration can be done using the Unique Application Number (UAN) provided after submitting the visa or citizenship application. The TLScontact platform will allow users to view appointment availability across various service points throughout the UK. Both standard and “assisted” appointment slots will be visible on the platform, with an interactive map of service locations helping users find the nearest TLScontact centre.
Early reports indicate some technical issues during registration, such as login difficulties. Applicants are encouraged to be patient as these issues are likely to be resolved as the system becomes fully operational.
Potential Alternatives
Given the challenges posed by the temporary reduction in appointment availability, some applicants may wish to explore alternative options. For example, those who are applying for visa categories that permit entry clearance may consider applying from outside the UK to avoid delays associated with in-country processing.
Alternatively, applicants may explore premium services such as VIP appointments, though these are often more expensive and subject to availability. If travel plans or urgent personal circumstances necessitate a faster decision, consulting with an immigration specialist can help determine the most suitable course of action.
Document Submission and Transfer
For those who have already uploaded their documents to the Sopra Steria platform, there is no need to worry about re-uploading them after the transition to TLScontact. All documents uploaded by 14 October 2024 will be securely transferred to UKVI. However, applicants who wish to upload additional documents after this date will need to do so using the new TLScontact platform once they have booked their biometric appointment.
How we can help
For expert advice on your UK immigration application, contact our professional team on 0208 757 5751 or use our contact form.
