As of 22 October 2024, the UK visa application process in Ghana is undergoing a significant change. The commercial partner responsible for operating the visa application centres in Ghana is transitioning from TLScontact to VFS Global.
This change is part of a broader shift in several regions, including Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and service quality of the visa application process.
Impact on Applicants
For applicants in Ghana, this change means that from 22 October 2024, all new appointments for UK visa applications must be booked through VFS Global.
However, applicants who have already booked appointments with TLScontact do not need to take any action; their appointments will proceed as planned until the TLScontact centre in Accra closes on 19 November 2024.
New Applicant Info:
- Appointment Bookings: Existing appointments with TLScontact will be honoured until 19 November 2024. New appointments must be booked through VFS Global.
- Document Submission: Applicants must upload their supporting documents before 22 October 2024 if they have a Self-Service Appointment with TLScontact. After this date, access to TLScontact online accounts will be discontinued.
- Communication: Applicants will receive email notifications from both TLScontact and VFS Global with instructions on how to proceed with their applications. It is crucial to verify the authenticity of these emails by checking the sender’s address.
Changes in Commercial Partners
The change from TLScontact to VFS Global is part of a larger restructuring of UK visa application services.
In the UK, the commercial partner for UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services is also changing from Sopra Steria to TLScontact on 15 October 2024. However, these changes will not affect the decision on applications or the processing times.
Global Scope of Changes
The transition to VFS Global is not limited to Ghana.
Several other countries, including Algeria, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Gambia, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Morocco, Seychelles, South Africa, and Tunisia, will also see VFS Global take over visa application services from 22 October 2024.
Additional locations will follow on 5 November 2024, including Cyprus (North), France, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Tajikistan, Turkey, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan.
What This Means for You
According to the UK government, these changes are designed to ensure a smoother and more efficient visa application process. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- No Impact on Decisions: The change in commercial partners will not affect the decision on your application or the time it takes to receive a decision.
- Appointment Availability: The availability of appointments will remain unchanged.
- Email Notifications: Applicants will receive detailed instructions via email from both TLScontact and VFS Global.
Quote from UKVI
“These changes are part of our ongoing efforts to improve the visa application process. We are confident that the transition to VFS Global will enhance the service quality and efficiency for our applicants,”
said a spokesperson from UK Visas and Immigration.
Steps to Take
If you are applying for a UK visa in Ghana, here are the steps you should follow:
- Book New Appointments: Ensure all new appointments are booked through VFS Global from 22 October 2024.
- Upload Documents: Upload your supporting documents before the transition date if you have a Self-Service Appointment with TLScontact.
- Check Emails: Regularly check your emails for updates from both TLScontact and VFS Global.
What it Means
The transition to VFS Global as the new commercial partner for UK visa applications in Ghana marks a significant step in improving the visa application process. While this change may require some adjustments, it is designed to enhance service quality and efficiency.
As the UK continues to streamline its visa services, it is essential for applicants to stay informed and follow the provided guidance. Here are the main points to remember:
- New Supplier: VFS Global is taking over from TLScontact in Ghana.
- Appointment Bookings: New appointments must be with VFS Global.
- No Impact on Decisions: The change will not affect application decisions or processing times.
Looking forward, how will these changes impact the overall experience of applying for a UK visa, and what other improvements can we expect in the future? Only time will tell.
Sources: THX News & Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.
