Faster processing of UK visas

The Philippines will be at the vanguard of a new visa service being rolled out to priority countries around the world by the United Kingdom.

British Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond made the announcement following the success of the pilot project in Beijing and New Delhi.

With this move, Manila will join New York, Paris, Abu Dhabi, Istanbul, Bangkok and Pretoria in offering the service of processing visas within 24 hours for those who have an urgent need to travel to UK.

In a statement, British Ambassador Asif Ahmad welcomed the announcement that the Philippines has been included in this first wave of countries which will ensure that travelers to the UK can have a service which fits all their possible needs.

“This is a testament to the growing bilateral trade, investment and tourism between our countries,” said Ambassador Ahmad.

Manila has been picked due to the high demand from businesses and high value travelers.

According to the top British diplomat in Manila, British visitors to the Philippines are at their highest ever level. Likewise, Filipino visits to the UK are up 23 percent so far this year.

He said the new Super Priority Service will be available for an additional fee and will be open for travelers in Manila in April, 2015.

The service is designed for business travelers but will also be available to those who want to pay a premium for expedited processing.

“This will mean that, whatever the need, there will be a service available to get you where you need to be in the UK, when you need to be there,” the ambassador said.

Ahmad pointed out that people have a clear choice and can use any one of the three options. They can apply in good time and pay the standard fee or pay more for a one- or four-day service.

Currently, the British Embassy in Manila offers efficient and fair regular services with decisions made within 15 days, he said. Applicants already have the option to pay for a four-day turnaround service and choose a preferred appointment slot.