From 15th July 2025, the way UK visa applications are submitted from the United States will undergo a major transformation, following a new rollout from VFS Global. The introduction of 38 dedicated UK Visa Application Centres (VACs) marks a significant shift away from the previous model using U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Application Support Centres (ASCs).
If you’re applying for a UK visa from the U.S., or supporting others who are, it’s important to understand how the new system will affect your application journey.
Key changes for UK visa applicants in the U.S.
1. In-person passport submission
One of the most important updates is that applicants will now submit their passports in person at their biometric appointment, rather than sending them to New York via courier. This not only simplifies the process but also eliminates the need to purchase a return shipping label, reducing the cost of the application.
Courier return services will no longer be mandatory, though optional courier services will still be available through the Visa Application Centre if applicants prefer not to collect their passport in person.
2. New UK Visa Application Centres (VACs)
VFS Global will open 10 free-to-use centres in major U.S. cities and 28 additional user-pay centres to serve applicants across the country. These locations are designed to improve access, reduce travel time for applicants, and ensure a smoother, more consistent application experience.
Under this new model, customers will book an appointment at their nearest VFS UK Visa Application Centre, attend in person, and complete both biometric enrolment and passport submission during the same visit.
3. DHS ASC appointments ending
From 15th July 2025, you will no longer be able to schedule a new biometric appointment at a DHS ASC.
Applicants who already have a confirmed ASC appointment may still attend up to 1st August 2025. After this date, all appointments must be made at a VFS centre.
4. Streamlined process and reduced costs
These changes aim to improve the overall customer journey by removing steps, increasing the number of appointment centres, and lowering costs associated with passport courier services. VFS Global’s full-service centres also offer enhanced services and support at each location, helping customers through the application process with greater flexibility.
Visalogic: Helping you adapt
This is one of the most significant structural changes to the UK visa application process for U.S.-based applicants in recent years. Whether you’re an individual applying for a UK visa, or an organisation assisting applicants, Visalogic is here to guide you through this transition.
We can help you:
- Understand which new centre is closest to you or your applicants
- Prepare for in-person passport submission
- Manage existing DHS appointments and timelines
- Navigate optional services and cost implications
- Update internal processes in line with VFS Global’s rollout
To speak with one of our immigration specialists, contact Visalogic today on 0845 646 1456.
FAQs
What is changing from 15th July 2025?
VFS Global is replacing DHS-run ASCs with 38 new UK Visa Application Centres in the U.S. All biometric appointments and passport submissions must now take place at a VFS centre.
Do I still need to courier my passport to New York?
No. As of 15th July, you will submit your passport in person at your biometric appointment. Return courier services are no longer required (though optional services are still available if preferred).
Where are the new centres located?
There will be 10 free-to-use centres in major U.S. cities and 28 user-pay centres across the rest of the country. These will offer broader coverage and more convenience for applicants nationwide.
Can I still attend a DHS ASC?
Only if your appointment was booked before 15th July. Existing ASC bookings will be honoured up until 1st August 2025.
Is this more expensive?
In many cases, no. The removal of mandatory return courier fees helps reduce the overall cost of completing the application process.