New UK visa application centre opens in Kingston today
A new United Kingdom (UK) Visa Application Centre (VAC) will open in Kingston today to process visas for persons wishing to travel to that country.
The new facility will be operated by VFS Global’s regional partner, the International Organisation for Migration under a contract awarded by the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI).
In a recent media release the British High Commission said while visa fees remain the same, optional additional services provided at the VAC will be available at an additional cost, which can be paid online.
“The UK VAC will provide exclusive services for the Government of the UK, and is authorised to accept applications in all categories,” the release said.
It further noted that VAC, which is located at the Towers on Dominica Drive in New Kingston, will also have facilities for interviewing.
“All applicants making a Tier four (general) application should expect to be interviewed when they attend their appointment at the visa application centre,” according to the release.
Meanwhile, the British High Commission reiterated that the decision to issue or refuse a visa is made solely by officers of the Home Office – UK Visas & Immigration, in accordance with the UK’s immigration visa rules and guidelines. The UK VAC, it said, has no role or influence over the outcome of an application and will not offer any evaluative advice.
With the new facility, the British High Commission said applicants can benefit from a host of facilities and additional services such as a conveniently located and easily accessible visa application centre; longer operating hours; convenient and spacious waiting areas; professional and responsive staff; dedicated website for easy access to information including visa types, requirements, applicable fees and application status; and online appointment based application submission, eliminating wait time at the VAC.
The facility will also offer additional services including direct-to-home delivery of passport.
Applicants are required to book online at www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk for appointments in any category.
