UK to launch faster visa service
The UK government will introduce two new optional services for Bangladeshi visitors to the UK and business visas from July 1.
The UK Border Agency will introduce the services Fast Track for visitor visas and Business Express Programme for selected companies, said a press release yesterday.
Fast Track is an optional service for visitor visa applicants, under which the agency will process visas and return documents more quickly -- in three working days in Dhaka and five working days in Sylhet.
The service is available to persons who have previously travelled to the UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada or any of the countries under the Schengen Area, without difficulties within the last five years.
The Business Express Programme is for Bangladeshi companies invited by UK Trade and Investment and the UK Border Agency to be members of the programme.
The agency will place special arrangements for company members of this programme. This will include expediting the processing of UK business visitor visas and skilled worker visa applications for company employees.
British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Robert Gibson said, “I am delighted to see these services being launched in Bangladesh. Fast Track provides an enhanced customer service option and supports our aim to encourage legitimate visitors to the UK.”
The Fast Track and Business Express Programmes are optional services for which an additional fee is payable. Further information is available at www.vfs-uk-bd.com.
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