Starting October 22, 2024, residents of Kenya planning to travel to the United Kingdom can now submit their visa applications through VFS Global’s newly established Visa Application Centres located in Nairobi and Mombasa. VFS Global, a long-time partner of UK Visas and Immigration, will now be responsible for facilitating visa appointments for Kenyans applying to visit the UK.
In addition to standard visa processing, VFS Global offers a variety of optional services aimed at making the application process more convenient and comfortable. These services include document upload assistance, SMS notifications for updates on the status of applications, and a "Prime Time" service, which allows applicants to submit their paperwork outside regular business hours. Applicants also have the option to use a courier service for the return of their passports once the visa decision has been made.
Alok Singhal, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa for VFS Global, expressed enthusiasm about expanding the company's services in Kenya: "We are excited to embark on this new journey with UK Visas and Immigration here in Kenya. We have enjoyed a long-standing partnership with UK Visas and Immigration since 2003 and look forward to now bringing travellers from Kenya our best-in-class services.”
For residents of Nairobi, VFS Global offers the "On Demand Mobile Visa" service, which allows applicants to submit their visa applications from their home, office, or any location of their choosing, making the process even more convenient. Another notable feature is the "Keep My Passport While Applying" service, where applicants can retain their passports after biometrics are collected and only need to resubmit them when a decision on their visa application has been made.
These services can be pre-booked on VFS Global's website or arranged at the Visa Application Centres during the scheduled appointments. However, it’s important to note that these additional services are optional and do not influence the processing time or outcome of the visa application.
VFS Global’s partnership with UK Visas and Immigration has expanded significantly since its inception in 2003, with the company now serving UK visa applicants in 142 countries. In Africa, VFS Global will operate UK Visa Application Centres in 31 countries, starting from October 2024.
News
Dusit D2 Terror Accomplices Jailed 30 Years for Attack Role
Two men have been sentenced to 30 years in prison each for their roles in the 2019 Dusit D2 terror attack, one of Kenya’s deadliest terrorist incidents in recent years that claimed 21 lives and injured many more.
Police Officer Fatally Shot in Thika During Motorcycle Check
A police officer was fatally shot in Thika on Wednesday evening during a routine patrol involving the verification of motorcycle registration codes.
U.S. Tightens Social Media Rules for Student Visa Applicants
International students applying for U.S. visas will now face stricter scrutiny of their social media activity under new guidelines announced by the State Department.
Trump Weighs Iran Strike But Holds Off Final Decision for Now
President Donald Trump has approved potential military plans for a strike on Iran but has not yet made a final decision to launch an attack, according to U.S. intelligence and defense sources.
Kenyatta University Student Shot During Protest Now Fears for His Life
Kenyatta University student Philip Oketch, who was recently shot in the neck during anti-finance bill protests, says he now lives in constant fear for his life.
Museveni Urges Parish-Level Audits to Track PDM Impact
President Yoweri Museveni has directed local leaders in Greater Mpigi to carry out parish-by-parish audits of how the Parish Development Model (PDM) is impacting households and helping them join the money economy.
Police Arrest 22-Year-Old Terror Suspect Near Nairobi Mosque
Police in Nairobi have arrested a 22-year-old man suspected of terrorism after his suspicious behavior caught the attention of officers near a mosque in the city.
Controversial Preacher Gilbert Deya Dies in Kisumu Road Crash
Controversial preacher Bishop Gilbert Deya died on the evening of Tuesday, June 17, in a tragic road accident along the Kisumu–Bondo highway.
Malaysia Backs Iran’s Retaliation as Markets React to Tensions
Malaysia has advised its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran, Iraq, and Jordan due to growing tensions between Iran and Israel and rising security concerns in the region.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem Hospitalized After Allergic Reaction
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was taken to the hospital on Tuesday after experiencing an allergic reaction, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Police Officer Arrested After Shooting Nairobi Mask Vendor
A police officer who allegedly shot a face mask vendor in Nairobi has been arrested, according to a statement released by the National Police Service (NPS).
26 Kidnappers Arrested in Kogi as Security Forces Intensify Crackdown
Security operatives in Kogi State have arrested 26 suspected kidnappers during a joint operation targeting criminal hideouts in Kogi West.
Court Halts Isiolo Governor Impeachment Over Public Participation
A planned public participation exercise meant to discuss the proposed removal of Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo has been called off after the court issued a conservatory order halting the process.
President Ruto Signs New Anti-Money Laundering Bill Into Law
President William Ruto has officially signed into law a new Bill aimed at strengthening Kenya’s efforts to fight money laundering and financial crimes.
Harvard Wins Extension of Court Order Against Trump Student Ban
Harvard University has successfully secured an extension of a court order that blocks former President Donald Trump’s ban on international students.