As the COVID-19 pandemic brought the immigration system to a standstill in the UK, Visa application centres were closed. Those with pending applications were unable to submit their biometric information and finish the final stages of the process. Now, the system is starting to reopen.
Biometric Appointments at Visa Application Centres
The closure of the visa application centres during the lockdown left hundreds of visa applicants in limbo. Despite the fact that their application forms had been submitted, they could not attend biometric appointments at visa application centres, so the overall application process was not complete.
As visa application centres reopen, the situation is beginning to change. Those who had booked an appointment before lockdown have been allowed to re-book, and the booking system has now been opened up to other customers. In addition to this, UKVCAS has announced a relaxation of the rules for those who previously submitted their biometric information: If it can be reused, the applicant will receive instructions by email on how to proceed.
Applications from within the UK
Biometric information is still a compulsory part of the application process. Those who do not qualify for an exemption still need to book an appointment at service points that have reopened.
Applications from outside the UK
The reopening of visa application centres abroad depends on the COVID-19 infection rates in the country concerned. Application centres in the USA and Canada are closed, but in many other countries, they are reopening.
Scarsdale Solicitors – Manchester, Rochdale and Oldham
If you need any advice on immigration issues, call the expert team at Scarsdale Solicitors Manchester, Scarsdale Solicitors Oldham and Scarsdale Solicitors Rochdale. If you need the help of Rochdale immigration solicitors, Manchester Immigration solicitors and Oldham immigration solicitors, call us today on 0161 660 6050.
