The United Kingdom has launched a new visa centre in Paris, marking a significant step in fostering tourism, economic, and cultural ties between France and the UK.
Opened on November 5, this new centre is designed to simplify the visa application process for foreign nationals residing in France who require a visa to enter the UK. It will also serve EU nationals seeking long-term stays in the UK, offering a streamlined application process, as reported by MonteOzTravels.com.
VFS Global, the company tasked with managing the centre, will provide a range of visa services, including priority and super-priority options, ensuring faster processing times for applicants.
This new facility is especially beneficial for anyone in France who needs to apply for a UK visa, including EU citizens traveling for work, study, or other reasons. It’s a step toward making travel between the two nations more accessible and efficient.
How the Process Works
As VFS Global takes over the management of UK visa applications, all applicants will be directed to their platform to book appointments and submit applications.
Anirudh Singh, VFS Global’s Europe Operations Director, expressed excitement about the new venture, reassuring applicants that the process would be as seamless as possible. “We are thrilled to offer UK visa services to travelers from France and appreciate the ongoing trust and collaboration with UK Visas and Immigration. Our state-of-the-art visa centre is ready to provide a smooth application experience for all UK visa clients,” he said.
Why This Matters for Travelers
France consistently ranks as one of the top countries for UK visitors, with over 3.2 million French nationals visiting the UK last year for business, education, and tourism. However, starting on April 2, 2025, all EU citizens will be required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the UK. This applies to those who do not need a visa for short stays or who do not have existing permission to live, work, or study in the UK.
The ETA, which comes with a €11 fee, will be valid for two years, further emphasizing the importance of this new visa centre for EU citizens planning trips to the UK.