If you're applying for a UK visa, Indefinite Leave to Remain, or British citizenship, you’ll likely need to attend a UKVCAS centre — short for UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services.
These centres are where you provide your biometric information, submit supporting documents, and complete other key parts of your immigration application from inside the UK.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- What UKVCAS centres are and who needs to visit them
- How to book an appointment and what to bring
- Where to find the nearest UKVCAS centre
- What happens during and after your appointment
What Is a UKVCAS Centre?
UKVCAS centres are operated by Sopra Steria, a commercial partner of the UK Home Office. They handle:
- Biometric enrolment (fingerprints and digital photo)
- Document checking or scanning
- Identity verification
You will typically be required to visit a UKVCAS centre if you are applying from inside the UK to:
- Extend your visa
- Switch visa categories
- Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
- Apply for British citizenship
Where Are UKVCAS Centres Located?
There are dozens of UKVCAS centres across the UK, located in major cities and towns. Some centres are within libraries or shared business centres (like Regus), while others operate as dedicated service points.
Most are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, though a few offer extended hours.
You can use the table below to locate your nearest UKVCAS service point, along with address and opening times.
UKVCAS Service Centres
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How to Book an Appointment
- Complete your application on gov.uk
- Pay your visa and Immigration Health Surcharge fees
- You’ll be redirected to the UKVCAS portal
- Choose your nearest centre and select a date/time
- Upload documents (optional) or opt to scan them at the centre
- Pay for any premium services if needed
You can use our visa fees calculator to estimate your total costs before applying.
What to Bring to Your UKVCAS Appointment
- Valid passport or travel document
- Appointment confirmation email
- Original documents (if not uploaded online)
- Any additional supporting paperwork listed in your appointment details
You do not need to submit your application in person — that is already done online. The appointment is only for biometrics and documentation.
What Happens at the Appointment?
Appointments usually take 30–60 minutes and include:
- Identity verification
- Fingerprint scan and digital photograph
- Confirmation of document uploads or on-site scanning
- Submission of your case to UKVI
You will not receive a visa decision at the appointment itself.
Optional Services
Some UKVCAS centres offer premium services:
- Out-of-hours bookings
- Document scanning assistance
- Mobile services for bulk applications
- Super priority processing (availability varies)
What Happens After the Appointment?
Once your biometrics and documents are submitted, your case is handed back to UKVI for decision-making.
Typical timelines:
- Standard service: up to 8 weeks
- Priority: 5 working days
- Super priority: next working day (if available)
If your application is approved, you’ll receive your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) in the post. Learn more: What to Do When Your BRP Expires or Is Delayed
Need Help With Your UKVCAS Appointment?
At Borderless, we help individuals and employers at every stage of the immigration process — including booking UKVCAS appointments, preparing documents, and ensuring your application is compliant.
If you're unsure how to upload your files or which service point to choose, we're happy to help.
Book a free consultation and get expert guidance from our immigration team.
