UK visa: online submission of forms from March 5 - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

UK visa: online submission of forms from March 5

Hindustan Times | ByJasdeep Singh Malhotra, Jalandhar
Feb 19, 2012 04:08 PM IST

The UK Border Agency (UKBA) today announced that applicants and their dependants would have to submit visa applications online from March 5

The UK Border Agency (UKBA) on Friday announced that applicants and their dependants would have to submit visa applications online from March 5, while stating that it would no longer accept manually-filled application forms.

HT Image
HT Image

Thomas Greig, UKBA’s regional director, said online applications and appointments would be mandatory for all applications under the points-based system, visitor and settlement routes. Applicants would now have to complete and submit application forms by visiting https://apply.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/iapply.portal.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

“We have been introducing the use of online applications gradually so that customers get used to the process. Customers already need to make online applications for visas under the points-based system. We are now extending the requirement to all categories of UK visa applications,” he added.

“Applicants will then have to print a hard copy of their application form and make an online appointment to attend their nearest visa application centre (VAC). They should bring the form printout to the VAC along with necessary supporting documentation. Applicants will have to give their biometrics (finger scans and digital photograph) at the VAC in line with the current practice,” Greig added.

“By completing and submitting a visa application online, the customer saves time when visiting the VAC as information about the application has already been received and recorded. It is also possible to assist an applicant’s relatives to complete their application online,” he said.

Applicants may continue to make an appointment separately to use the optional services on payment of additional fee, such as premium lounges, fast track and prime time, to submit applications and should refer to http://www.vfs-uk-in.com/additionalservice.html for further guidance, said Marcus Winsley, director, press and communications, British High Commission, New Delhi.

Premium lounges are available at four VACs in India ‑ New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Chennai. There are no charges for making a routine online appointment at the VACs.

Information about the visa submission process and the location of VACs is available at www.vfs-uk-in.com, and about visa applications and supporting evidence at www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Friday, March 29, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On