Kenyans to apply for UK visa via VFS

Kenyans looking to travel to the United Kingdom now have a more convenient way to apply for visas, thanks to the newly opened VFS Global offices in Nairobi and Mombasa.

The new centers aim to streamline the visa application process with a range of services designed to enhance accessibility and convenience for applicants.

Alok Singhal, the Head of Sub-Saharan Africa for VFS Global, announced that all visa applicants are required to book an appointment online before starting their application process.

This structured approach ensures a smoother and more efficient system for managing visa applications.

VFS Global, a long-standing partner of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) since 2003, is committed to providing high-quality service to Kenyan travelers. Singhal expressed enthusiasm about the new facilities, highlighting that they will offer top-tier services tailored to meet the needs of Kenyan visa applicants.

To further simplify the process, VFS Global has introduced several optional services. These include assistance with uploading necessary documents, the ability to submit applications outside of regular business hours, SMS notifications to keep applicants updated on the status of their application, and a passport courier service to deliver documents back to applicants once a decision has been made.

In a move to accommodate the growing demand for flexible services, VFS Global’s Nairobi office now offers a Mobile Visa service, allowing applicants to complete their visa submissions from the comfort of their homes or offices.
This service eliminates the need for applicants to visit the visa center in person, making the process even more convenient.

One of the more notable features introduced is the ‘Keep My Passport While Applying’ service. This option allows applicants to retain their passport after submitting their visa application and completing biometric requirements, only returning the passport when the final decision is ready.

This service is particularly useful for those who need to travel for other purposes while their visa application is being processed.

VFS Global, having secured a recent contract to expand its UK visa services globally, now operates in 142 countries, including 31 across Africa by October 2024.

This expansion from 58 countries reflects the growing demand for UK visa services and VFS Global’s commitment to making the process more accessible for a broader range of applicants.

These new developments are expected to greatly enhance the visa application experience for Kenyans, providing them with more options and flexibility as they plan their travel to the United Kingdom.