Reviews of TLScontact Visa Application Centre - London. (Travel Agency) in London (London).
TLScontact Visa Application Centre - London
18 Ryeland Blvd, London SW18 1UN, United Kingdom
Description
Information of TLScontact Visa Application Centre - London, Travel Agency in London (London)
On this page you’ll find the address, open hours, more popular times, the contact, photos and real reviews of this business.
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Map
Open hours of TLScontact Visa Application Centre - London
Sunday
Closed
Monday
8:30am–4:30pm
Tuesday
8:30am–4:30pm
Wednesday
8:30am–4:30pm
Thursday
8:30am–4:30pm
Friday
8:30am–4:30pm
Saturday
Closed
Popular times
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Tuesday
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Thursday
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Reviews of TLScontact Visa Application Centre - London
D. A.
Don’t mind the negative reviews like I did. If you bring all the documents required, you will be fine. I got 1 hour early for my appointment and I was accepted immediately. Everyone is very accommodating and kind. The whole process took 1 hour and I got my visa in 3 working days! (Germany)
A. A. C.
Straightforward application process. The negative reviewers probably haven't experienced a way worse service ( cough cough s***n) 😂booked early morning appointment and it was a quick in and out by 30 mins. The guy who did my application on counter 12 was very nice as well. Friendly which is rare for application centre. Got my visa in 3 working days. Only 6 months visa but it's probably because my passport is expiring in a year.
B. S.
I'd have given a higher rating, but the lady at the till made me wait because according to her, I was late however, I was there 15 minutes early. The queue was long so that it took 40-45 minutes. She made me wait at the lounge with couple of other people because a SUPERVISOR had to approve us to go to the next room to submit our application however, no one came to us. After speaking with 3 different security guards, the last one told us to go in because our number could've already been called up. As soon as I walked in, my number was on the screen. The lady at the front desk almost made me miss my appointment.
Feedback: They should make a system, where they scan the barcode when people enter so that they know the individual was in the building on time.
I was in the building for just over 3 hours. Rest of the process was straight forward, and it went well.
P. R.
Update:
Once you get past the online portal hurdles, people at the application centre make life much easier. Staff is helpful and the whole process is pretty streamlined. Getting an appointment around the non rush hours definitely helps.
One interesting tip for contacting customer support is to stay on the line even after the automatic voice tells you to leave your number or call back later. If you stay on the line, sooner or later someone will answer.
# changing 1 star to 3.
—-———
Cannot give less than 1 star.
Just rescheduling an appointment has been a nightmare for me. The web portal is the worst portal in the history of mankind. Practically non-contactable, tried the so called hot-line number 50 times as well as the web form.
I have written to German Embassy London directly to report such a hopeless service. Hopefully, some help will come from there.
S. C.
Pay extra and use the premium lounge(£50) !! Turned up an hour early for our appointment and asked if we could go in the premium area. Security guard was great took us straight in. Only waited 45min to be seen (only due to people in front of us not having right documents) then it only took about 15min for me and my wife’s documents to be processed and finger prints taken. Free drinks was nice.
Just make sure you take all the documents and copies of things you need and it’s really simple. We sat and watched people having to go get photos and print things off which obviously slowed everything down. Make sure you have 2 photos.
Had email that our documents have been sent to the French consulate on the same day.
J. S. L.
This visit visit which was first thing in the morning, much less queues and the staff were nice, professional, helpful and very thorough to ensure our application was error-free. So it is only fair I reflect this. Thank you. 5 stars.
So I have edited this as Google only allows one review per account.
(The previous review was for the first attempt where we faced a stressful 3.5 hour wait so we abandoned the queue to come back at another day, though with the loss of the admin fee for that day and I gave it 2 stars)
A. J.
Pay for the premium service. I was in and out within 45min. There was only 1 person in front of me. The agent was really helpful and even filled my application as I had only done a paper application and not an online one which I didn’t know I had to. The only downside with this center is that there is no courier service for the passport and it is annoying to come pick it up especially as it is not in central london. Also remember to bring a copy of your passport printed for passport pickup, I had to go print it from the post office as did a few others.
J. T.
Contrary to other reviews, I found all the staff, starting from security at the beginning right through to biometrics section, all very helpful. I was allowed in a bit earlier and finished everything all within about an hour. Much appreciated.
Also, just got an email earlier today saying my passport is ready to collect, this has been processed after 11 working days. Thought that was pretty quick but read before someone got theirs in 4 days! Maybe I had a slight delay because of Christmas etc.
E. B.
The experience wasn't as awful as some of these reviews, but it can be drastically improved.
1. I found the website & booking system manageable, and booked my appointment with no issues.
2. My appointment was booked for 13h00. I arrived at 12h30, but was not allowed through until about 12h55. The reception lady was however using her discretion to let some people in.
3. I managed to find a seat and waited for just over an hour. You are allowed to be on your laptop / phone, as long as you don't take calls. So I was fortunate enough to be able to carry on working, however I can see how for different jobs this is a long time to be at an appointment centre for certain individuals.
3. I went over to the counter, and found the man assisting me to be quite abrupt. That being said, he processed my documents and I was waved off in about 15 mins.
My appointment was on Tuesday, and this morning (Friday) I received an email to say my passport was ready. The collection process was very smooth:
1. Make sure to take a your application checklist, your photographic ID and a copy of your ID.
2. I had these on me, but if you didn't, there was a lady just before you queued that photocopied for you for 20p (cash only).
Overall it wasn't an overly complicated process, my criticism is mainly centred around the fact that it is a bit silly to book slots if you are going to wait for over an hour anyway. I was lucky, as some people seemed to have been waiting for > 3 hours!
F. G.
I’d just like to share my experience because I could have really done with seeing something like this! (London, long stay in France)
When booking your appointment I advise you to book the soonest one you see even if it is a while away and then call the centre you are going to to see if they have sooner appointments. I got one 3 weeks earlier this way but you need to call them again and again because they say they will call you back but they don’t. Try and call as early to their opening time as possible!
The process was really simple when you are there and all the staff I encountered were lovely but just make sure you have the documents printed off they ask you to have. I only waited an hour when I was there but my friend went 2 days before me and waited for 4 so I guess it just depends.
I have just received an email today that my passport is back in the office, just 5 days after my appointment! I hope this helps someone 😊
Y. L.
People should read the document requirements carefully and bring all originals and hard copies , this saves the time of the staff which is generally helpful and cooperative. It will reduce queuing. There are very few counters for preliminary check as well as for the biometrics.
okay
t. d.
This visa centre wasn't bad as many negative reviews showed. I booked the appointment for France visa at 2pm on 23/11/2021, but came 45 minutes sooner, so they didn't let me in until 1:45pm. The visa process was faster than I thought (only long-waiting time for biometric collection), and I finished all steps after 1hr 10 minutes (before 3pm) staying there. It took only 4 working days to process my application, and now I got my visa. Before going to this centre, make sure you bring all documents required, which will help your visa application become straightforward. However, COVID Pass is not required if your duration of stay in France is not less than 7 days.
A. E.
my visa appointment was at 9:00, every one there started to line at 8:25 and they let us in after they checked the appointment confirmation , the entire process from handing over the requirements up to the last step took exactly 25 minutes ( if you bring the correct requirements)
In conclusion make sure all the requirements all are ready so it won’t cost you time and bad feelings and money.
J. P. G.
It's our first time visiting this new location after they transferred from their previous one. There were certainly quite full when we arrived as they were still processing the previous hour's applicants. The process was quite clear and straightforward which we appreciated.
The most probable cause of delays are applicants with missing or incomplete requirements; so I would strongly suggest that you have EVERYTHING prepared beforehand. Read and double-read the requirements to be 100% certain you have not missed anything.
Our only gripe was that the placement of the screens that show the next applicants for processing was not convenient given the arrangement of the seats. It would have been better if the screens were placed in locations where it would be visible to most people.
W. D.
I had a good experience in the center. Friday 14:00 slot, waited for only 10min to get called. The documents only took 10min to be collected, everything was surprisingly fast and smooth. At night on the same day I already received an email saying the application has been transferred to consular!
n. h.
The service is perfectly good. I read a lot a but wasting time .but I arrived a bit early they opened the door at 8:15 and I finished everything before 9!
I paid fir premium service but so happy about that payment.i really recommend this center and if you are in rush I recommend premium service.
N. K.
Your employee Jasmine Nobile was so helpful and kind. I am grateful for her guidance and help.
Thank you all for the great experience for NHS key workers.
God bless.
A. E.
my visa appointment was at 9:00, every one there started to line at 8:25 and they let us in after they checked the appointment confirmation , the entire process from handing over the requirements up to the last step took exactly 25 minutes …
W. D.
I had a good experience in the center. Friday 14:00 slot, waited for only 10min to get called. The documents only took 10min to be collected, everything was surprisingly fast and smooth. At night on the same day I already received an email saying the application has been transferred to consular!
A. V.
I'm just coming out of this center submitting my documents. It was a good experience for me. I had my appointment at 9am reached 20mins early then I checked in and used the photo booth service to take the photo and staff was helpful and friendly. Helped me out with my application changes on the spot and then had to wait 10-15mins for biometric. The whole process was around an hour. I would recommend to book your appointment in the morning so that there won't be much waiting.
T. “. T.
Applied on the 17th of November, took me approximately 2.5 hours to finish the submission process. I had to leave to go and collect a missing document for an hour so time would have taken roughly an 1.5 hours. Received an email on the 23rd after 4 working days to collect my passport. My advice to anyone going, is to carry all the required documents and copies. Staff were polite, contrary to the negative reviews I have read. Thank you TLS!
H. J.
I had good experience contrary to other comments. Was there for Swiss Visa and the lady came out to have all Swiss candidates invited to separate line and it all took 30 mins.
Also I had all documents well organized and none missing.
What more I got Schengen Visa in 2 days and could attend my meeting!!!
I think France has lot of rush so people might need more time at hand as 70% people seem to be there for France visa stamping.
Printouts, Photo booth, Copier, Water, Toilet all there and it's decent area.
They won't call back but I tried 3 ties and got through once and got all required answers. They can improve this aspect though but it's a problem with all visa coordinators.
A. T.
Experience applying German VISA
Appointment date selection
Getting close appointment dates was tough. I got an appointment 3 weeks from date I created my account. Do keep in mind this. My advice -- Apply before 1 month from date of Travel
I had my appointment at 830 in morning. Had reached there 5 min early but still was in the end of the queue. .
Once you enter the building, you get divided in queue by country wise. Thankfully german visa applicants were few in number. The guy at counter checked all my documents and inquired about my vaccination status. You need not carry your vaccination certificate but you need them at time of entering Germany.
Then in the second counter, the lady checked my travel documents and said to change my Travel insurance. They want insurance for schenzen country and not just for Germany. So I had to buy again and get print out from nearest POST office (2 min from center). They do not allow taking prints inside.
After that in last counter , the lady took my biometric scan and the process was over. Overall it took 1.5 hours. If I had been in front of queue and had all docs, it would take max 30min-45min. Do select morning slot and arrive by 8. You will be free by 9.- 9.15
I applied on Monday and got passport return mail on Friday. One day lost due to a document missing (PR of friend) which I sent by mail on Wednesday.
I collected my VISA today. It took 2 min for passport collection.
So overall my experience was positive with TLS. Off-course they do-not pick up phones. Search for your queries in reviews. You might be able to get your answers here.
v. c.
Few tips which may help:
- Parking (paid) available at NCP car park in shopping centre nearby
- Buy Travel insurance for Schengen area not just for the country you are planning to visit
- photograph facility available inside the building (they mostly reject the photo you will bring)
- There is a post office nearby for any print outs/copy
- Take a photocopy of ID when you go to collect your passport
C. E.
One of the best visa application processes I had in anlong time. The new place is very well structured, the process steps are clearly defined. Thenapplicants are treated nicely, which is usually for some reason not the case. The waiting areas do have toilets, which is again mostly not the case. Overall a decent and humane experience.
K. A.
Challenges-
1>getting an appointment, the website doesn't distinctly show when the appointments are available, shows everything. No appointments for 2 months, no message telling that, you need to figure it out as they are not clickable. Had to keep on checking figuring out if new slots were released, then account got locked for the day, luckily one got available after a week.
2>Once you book an appointment there is no way to reschedule or cancel, which might lead to many appointments wasted.
3>No car parking details on the website, reached there to realise . It'll be good to mention nearest car park is ncp.
4>Covid certificate is required which TLS website says but not on the French application checklist. Noticed many people didn't read that and waste time, an appointment to reschedule.
5>staff is very efficient , but there are long queues my 8:30 am 1,st appointment of the day took 1.5 hrs. If you have a later time slot, be prepared to wait longer.
6> priority or courier service not working due to covid. Website should have mentioned this.
Bottom line lots of scope of improvement on the technical aspects of the website and appointment booking system. Which can massively improve user experience and overall service for everyone.
L.
We submitted our applications today (Oct 13) in TLS in Wandsworth and had a pleasant experience. Friendly and polite staff.
Our appointment was scheduled at 11 am; we arrived early, and they let us in around 10:30 am.
We completed the process in only two hours from document submission to biometrics. Not bad for a visa processing centre, but processing time could be improved. If they could reduce it to 1 hour, that'd be perfect.
Will update my review if I encounter issues with passport return.
Tip: if you can book an appointment very early/first thing in the morning, do it. So there will be no backlogs.
UPDATE: received an sms for our visa in just 4 business days. No issues with passport return. Very straightforward process.
B. P.
Went there for the appointment and took us roughly 2 hrs in and out. Website can still improve, as you cannot really modify anything on it so you would have to send them an email (and get a reply 2 days later) or try to call them (best of luck). Staff were nice though.
N. P.
Appointment: 15/10/2021 for French Visa.
I was a bit sceptical considering some of the other reviews I had read about TLS-Contact London.
To make matters worse, there had been a problem with the French Visa website (not the TLS-Contact website) account access.
But not only did the TLS-Contact London webteam revert to my email/feedback and deal with the problem (admittedly, the fault was not mine, but the fault was not theirs either- they could have just said "It's not our problem"!), on the actual day of the appointment, JULIEN (TLS-Contact London, French Visa Section) WAS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING and went ABOVE AND BEYOND his duty to do what needed to be done and sort out the problem!
I CANNOT THANK YOU ENOUGH, JULIEN!
DIEU VOUS BÉNISSE!
Two things worth mentioning, which need to be improved, please, TLS-Contact London:
1) ONLY ONE (OUT OF 8) Biometric Desk was functional and the computerised calling system had also gone for a toss so all applicants had to physically "stand in a queue" like for a ticket at the railway station before the internet age.
2) There is currently no passport delivery service because it seems UPS lost too many passports and TLS-Contact has still not found a replacement courier company- so you will have to make another trip to London to collect your passport.
However, the outstanding Customer Service I received meant I left with a smile on my face despite these shortcomings.
THANK YOU, TLS-Contact London!!!
A. A.
very large center with many counters to speed up serving applicants.
My appointment was at 8:30. All went smooth and ok. I had no problem.
A. R.
Sept 14: had an appt with France for 14:30, got there around 14:20. Within 10 mins was at the application center for checking application and collection. Completed this around 3pm, followed by biometrics and was out by 3:20pm. The woman at the application counter and the security guard at biometrics were extremely friendly and ensured we had a good experience.
Was told we’ll get our passports back in 5-10 days. 🤞🏾 waiting game begins now.
M. C.
I submitted my Schengen visa application for Germany today. After reading all the reviews here I was a bit anxious but everything went ok. Somehow the German application line was the longest so it took a while for document verification. I queued outside at 11:30 went in at 11:45 after scanning my bag etc for my appointment which was at 12:00 and came outside by 13:30. It look longer than I expected but staff at the document verification counter and biometric/payment counter were nice and friendly. There are couple of computers with printer access if needed for any last minute print outs (not sure if they charge for printouts - as far as I can tell it seemed free) and a photo booth. The staff at the counter were nice and asked most people with missing documents to return with necessary documentation by 2 pm so that they can submit the application on the same day which was nice of them but quite a few people came in with no invitation letter or applying through wrong embassy etc which was sad as some of them had no choice as they couldn't submit the application due to lack of necessary documentation.
The reason why I am giving 3 stars is because you need to go back in person to collect passport as they don't have a passport delivery which is appalling in the time of pandemic. This is my 6th Schengen visa and I never ever in the past had to collect in person as I always had the option to choose passport delivery. Request to TLScontact: please to start this service as most of the people probably live far away from the application centres so having to come back and collect the passport is a big disappointment! I am really sorry to say, you have the worst website ever, please do something about it! P.S: Please make sure to book your appointment at least couple of months before your flight and choose the date of appointment at least a month before your date of departure if it makes sense as many people have complained about not being able to get appointments. I submitted mine at London Wandsworth where they collect German applications on Tuesdays and Fridays (not sure about other country applications).
Update: I submitted my application on Tuesday and I got an email confirmation on Friday that my passport was ready for collection.
K.
Honestly, out of all the bad reviews, I had a good experience with them. Place is clean, people are organised in terms of running. The staff are friendly and very understanding. I give them 5 stars!
M. B.
Tips to save your time:
1. Book the appointment as early as possible to avoid long queues — I booked the one at 8:30 and was let in at 8:20.
2. Check the documents you have, including the covid passport (which can be generated from NHS app).
3. Order documents in the sequence of the checklist
L. W.
Our appointment was at 2.45 but we had to wait an hour to be seen. The young lady that dealt with our applications was really lovely and extremely helpful. Once we had given over the paperwork we had to register our biometrics. We were there just over 2 hours in total but we just accepted there was probably going to be a bit of a wait. We were told we should be able to collect our visa within around 10 days (they don't offer a postal service due to passports having gone missing) so probably not a good idea to book to go anywhere for about 2 weeks after the application. The only negative was that you don't find out if your visa has been granted until you actually pick up your passport and open it when you collect it!
R. R.
I booked a 9.00 appointment and finished around 9.40. The staff are friendly and helpful. I think booking the morning slot such as 8.30 or 9 helps cut the waiting time.
L. O. R.
UPDATED: This company does not have a good website which make it very hard to change appointments and login without being locked out the account. The helpline being down is no help either and the messaging service is slow. That said, when there was a problem with my application and it was sent back from the consulate, the TLS centre went above and beyond to help me in person. Special thanks to Collins who was patient and diligent and seemed like a great team leader. Thank you!
A. A.
Staff are very helpful and friendly. Smily faces. The processing was smooth. Got my visa within 4 working days. Thank you.
P. M.
Helpful friendly staff. yes it's a bit slow at times, but there are alot of people applying for visas. If you read the instructions that are sent to you, and follow them precisely then there shouldn't be any problems.
A. H.
I made the mistake of reading a lot of the negative reviews before my appointment at the TLS centre which sent me in with a very apprehensive mindset. I wish I hadn’t! I found most of the staff to be incredibly polite and helpful. They even give you until 2.30pm the same day to provide any missing documents and not delay the application. The appointment did take a while and I had to wait a lot, especially for the biometrics, but I’ve found that to be similar in all embassy/visa centres. Process on the day was about 1.5-2 hours start to finish. Staff did their best to make the experience pleasant and smooth, and were especially helpful this morning when I returned to collect my passport after just 7 working days! Very impressed. You just have to play the game a bit - get your documents in order before you go and save yourself the stress on the day. I think maybe I went to a different centre to most other reviewers...?!
K. V.
please note that Google's first result in TLSContact directs to this place in Wandsworth, whereas all the pics here refer to the place in Kensington. Wandsworth is the new correct address (this change was made less than a week ago). i have attached some pics of the new place
V. G.
It’s a 15 min walk from East Putney tube station. The tls office is situated in a nice area with coffee shops and eateries around. Waiting times are very high. I went for swiss schengen visa and I had my turn approximately 2 hours after my scheduled appointment time. So if you’re going there, prepare everything according to the visa checklist or else you might need to book an appointment again. Be physically and mentally prepared to wait. It is painful, but less painful than trying to book an appointment with VFS which is horrible. The express courier service is not available so you have to collect your passport manually. I was handled by Olga.C at counter 18. She was clear and patient. She completed everything necessary to file an application and explained everything in detail with patience. You can also print photos for your application inside the centre. Biometric recordings were good and done by a polite woman in counter 5. The Indian guy who is outside the counters was a bit annoying though.
P. D.
Trying to get hold of this place is a nightmare, phoned multiple times with no response as the France-visas page and the TLS contact page has conflicting information and I was not sure what I needed to include for my visa. Additionally, the France-visas page itself has different information whether you read the information in the French webpage or English webpage - with no clarification from TLS with what they want. Emails are pointless as even if they respond (which they won't for a long time) it is an automated response with the same information that you can find on the websites (which is often conflicting). Very unhelpful.
After becoming super nervous from reading the reviews, I will say that the whole TLS appointment was relatively painless. A very organised system to move people through to each stage, clean and comfortable waiting areas. The whole appointment lasted about an hour. I ended up just bringing every document possible which meant there were no issues. Staff were very friendly and helpful. I could see where the one star reviews come from as many people bring the wrong documents then have a go at the staff. Can't fault the actual appointment stage at all, please just sort out the website!!!
They said I will probably get my visa in a week (longstay), I will update to confirm
EDIT - I received my visa 3 days later!
Z. C.
A perfect experience. The new workplace in 2021 is much higher than the previous one. The enthusiastic French staff and reception staff helped me a lot today. The traffic in London is as bad as usual. Today, I encountered a very serious traffic jam on the way to the visa center. I chose the train but all cancelled unexpectedly. I am seriously late, even the staff is ready to leave work. But they still accepted me with enthusiasm and helped me to print materials I didn't prepare. thank you guys!
X. C.
Update: the rearranged appointment was rather smooth, everything was cleared up very quickly and the people dealing with applications were nice and helpful.
Shocking management, unexpected closure, people were angry that they couldn't get their passport back in time for travelling but workers inside filming with a smirk!
B. S.
Thanks for the staff working at TLS. Very friendly, helpful and kind. Got my visa for 6 days. It’s amazing.
The process itself is a little bit bureaucratic, but the rest is perfect. Thanks again
M. M.
Received an email from them stating the closure of the tls centre due to covid and they cancelled my appointment for 17th Sep 2021 9:25am just a week before. The email came at 11pm on 10th Aug and stated to only contact them if travelling before 6th September! Which I am and once I contacted them to provide me with an appointment , all they could muster was-
Dear Customer,
Thank you for your inquiry.
Please be informed that there are no available appointments in the present time, all are fully booked, you can check time to time on your TLScontact account, it can be some available slots in the next days .
If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact our Customer support.
This is so unprofessional to cancel the appointment like this and not provide with a rescheduled appointment. It is causing me so much stress. and if I try to log in several times a day to look for a opening in the slot , they block my account for the day! please stop doing that so i can at least help myself to an appointment if you wouldn't!
Edit-
Appointment date-
I was able to book an appointment for 26th Aug for 9am. Everything was smooth and the staff is nice and professional. It took an hour to get everything done. Just make sure to bring all the documents as requested on receipt of visa application and don't forget to scan all pages of your passport. Make photocopies of all your original documents to speed up the process and everything will go just fine.
B. J.
I have tried calling and you will be ask to leave your number for a call back but they will never call. waste of space. I finally got there in person and found a very helpful staff in counter 25. She's very good at her job.
N. A.
Big thank you to the kind "Svitlana" in the call centre! Svitlana was so kind, helpful and considerate ♥️
She helped me change my visa appointment from Manchester to London and have her eye on the process and was always willing to help in every way she could find.
Much appreciated and keep it up🌹
D. W.
Please call the number provided in TLS website. If you call the number provided by google map and someone asks for your account number and passwords and send you link for payment please be cautious about that.
D. B.
I just filled up the form and need urgent help with something.i called them a thousand times and no one called me back. I have filled the form but have not received any reply yet. Please reply soon. Its very urgent.
B. S.
I was there at German embassy on 18th August to submit my application and since that was my first experience it was hard for me to get all the documents i needed for my application and this nice Lady called khaira.B helps me a lot to get everything done may God continue to bless you and your family ,I really appreciate your good customer service.thanks
A. B.
The staff that took care of my requirements was nice and truly helpful. Very fast and efficient transaction as well, took me only 3 days in total to have my Schengen visa.
R. T. K.
Thursday's are the best days to go as they usually quiet and it is quick getting in and out.
The staff are really friendly and helpful, just make sure you get all your paper work in order before going, otherwise your going to have problems.
A.
Ignore the negative reviews. Its a complicated process but if you follow the check list it will be ok. Can see why staff can get frustrated if you turn up without the correct information. Only thing I would improve is information relating to costs. And for the embassies to accept on line payments. Veronica is extremely helpful and can answer lots of questions.
E. S.
Quick and easy. Had a slight hiccup with paperwork that I felt could have been communicated better. But over all it was an easy process with polite staff.
D. D.
I downloaded tls contact track my application but it doesn't work. How can I find out how my visa is? We've been waiting for 6 months.
J. K.
Excellent Service!!!! Git my Schengen visa in 3 days!!!
P. I.
My latest visit was A+. There were too many mistakes in my visa application form but luckily, I got one of the nicest staff dealing with my application. She helped me fill a fresh form on the spot and made sure I didn't make any mistakes this time. I applied for a visa from here 3 times over the years and I can tell from experience, the service has always been good and this time, they went above and beyond my expectations. The staff member that helped was Claudia - you can't choose to be addressed by her but it's nice to see some people who are extra kind and helpful.
Getting an appointment can take longer during summer due to increased demand but if you plan well, perfect place for a Schengen visa. The earliest appointment I could get was 1 month from the day I was looking
A. L.
3 stars because the website was so unclear, and it took a really long wait, my booking was 9:30 I went out 12:45. But 5 stars to staffs who are generally superb, esp the girl / madam who helped me named H.B. at booth 3.
Today her service and performance left me great impression. She was very friendly, well mannered, very clear in saying what documents was missing, what I need to do, etc.
Despite visa application is a very stressful process for many, the smiling staff here did their best to help, hope their attitude will keep on!
E. S.
Thank you for your service. Since my first visit, l can say that the service is improving. Apart for the bad experience during my first visit last year; the staff member are much better, quickly and so friendly.
The waiting time outside is actually much longer than to check all of my documents, l was out after 15 minutes and l got my passport back within 5 days after my appointment even although it's been returned by post. Thank you and keep up the good work.
Q. Q.
Had a terrible experience thanks to the systems and existing of 2 sites in the process. Premium lounge solved the issue. Melina in the lounge was the hero. She saved the day!
I. T.
I heard many negative comments regarding their services and unfriendly staff. Unfortunately, this morning my experienced out come in positive ways. Since I walked through security check, they talked polite and nicely, a staff walked through to show my way to Belgium counter service as there are upstairs, even few more staff who checking my paper also nice and polite. They are not too close talking and smiling like friends as I understand their position of working for visa application couldn’t be so warm welcome as immigration☺️ But they smiled and very welcome you to ask questions if you have in mind.
Those just commented about their services to not let you worry (like me at first when I read many commends) I don’t know about period of time for my visa processing, just happy for their services to share to others . So far so good! 👍🏻 Hope they keep it up!
m. m.
The experience was very good and really quick. The staff is very helpful and kind, especially my mum who does not speak English : one of the member of the staff was able to speak Spanish and it did help a lot :-) I had issue with the insurance I bought previously and advised me on how to get a new one with the correct requirements. Really impressed that it was so quick, usually in other consulates from my experience, it takes much longer. thank you for the service!
K. S.
I had a visa appointment yesterday at 11.30 am. I showed up there on 11am and saw the long line of about 20+ people in front of me waiting to go in for their appointment time. Most of them are the people from 9am onwards. So, everything are pretty much delayed because there were massive of applicants versus about 5-6 open counters.
I would say this: the staffs are very nice, they smiled and speak to you nicely. If you prepare your document well, and with extra copies. It's very smooth and easy during the process of submission. I would recommend you to prepare a few more extra copies for each documents you need. Though they have printing facilities and photo booth, the lines are not worth the wait really.
Also, try to get the earliest interview slot time as early as you can to avoid the traffic. If you forget some document, they will allow you to submit again before 14.30 pm.
In total, i arrived there 11am and got out about 15.15 pm.
R.
Some reviews I read before coming here made me kind of worried. But when my wife and I came here for our appointment, that changed 180 degrees. The staff is really respectful, friendly and helpful. The queue was short and we didn’t wait for long. Our appointment was at 3:30 pm but they let us in at 3:00 pm. The process was kind of slow but other than that everything was great!
A. C.
I applied for french visa here, the appoinment well and wasn't extremely time consuming. However, some of the staff over there are a bit rude. TLS is very speedy with sending the documents to the cosulate and I got my visa within 10 working days. I believe as long as you submit all the required documents then and apply for the visa atleast 15 working days before travelling then there is no scope of rejection and you will get your passport on a good time
C. B.
On attending the appointment, the staff were really kind and helpful. We made a mistake in the application but the lady serving us was able to correct this so our application could go ahead. However, the visa was not prepared in time for our trip, we were not informed when it was ready, it took three days to get through on the phone and despite a promise to get a call back within a few hours, this took 6 days.
Q. A. N.
All staffs were very nice. Despite the huge number of applicants, they still manage to operate very effectively. It took me only approximately 2 hours to complete the procedure. I conducted procedures by Monday and received my passport and visa back on Friday. Just 4 days in total. That was great. Thanks.
陆.
I applied for French visa last year which was very strict and always has some wired reason to reject you. But this year the situation has been changed a lot since TLScontact in Edinburgh appeared. They are very friendly and quick. I bought Europe 1 insurance from post office which was wrong. They suggest another insurance which can be purchased inside this center. It took me 3 minutes to buy the right insurance. The security guard is very nice. He reminded me that I left purse on the printer. I am the only applicant inside this center. I noticed another girl came to collect her passport and she got 6 months. I am very satisfied with this visa application service.
A. M.
Applied two months in advance of the trip but got an appointment only two weeks prior to travel. Tried calling their helpline but to no avail- they said they are fully booked but then suggested that if I apply through one of their registered agents , I would get a time of my choice ! So, the question is- if it is really fully booked, how would the registered agents get a time slot of my choice ? That I suppose is a case of commission sharing because these agents charge approx 200 more per passport.
Anyway, on the day of appointment, they did allow to enter on time but it took approx one hour to reach the counter. The reason is that they are clearly understaffed. Most counters are empty.
On reaching the counter, the lady checked all the documents and said I have a document missing. I had filled my 8 year old kid's form under the the category of 'less than 18 years'. Under this category there was no requirement of school certificate. But she insisted that I need a school certificate, crossed the category manually from 'less than 18 years' to 'student' and sent to consulate with a note that document is missing. 7 days after submission , I received a mail again stating that unless missing document is submitted, visa cannot be processed. So had to make a repeat visit to the center !
TLS, my question to you is why is this not clear in your website ? If a 8 year is only considered as student then that should be made clear otherwise a requirement of 'type of studies, & details of course " are generally considered to be undergraduate students ( not primary school kids). Anyway, I got the visa a day before travel but one extra trip was redundant.
I think there's much scope for improvement in your overall services. And please train your staff to smile a bit, it doesn't cost a dime. Thanks.
N. N.
It was my first time applying for a visa and I was very nervous. Good luck for me I was helped by a very nice lady who was smiling and made jokes. I had a problem with my booking for my hotel but she was very nice and explained how I can fix it. The passport came back very soon also and I was very happy about this. When I went to collect my passport I saw the lady again and she was very nice and helpful. I am very happy about this service and will always go back confident when I need to apply for a visa.
Y. D.
Normally I have very low expectations with any kinds of visa application centres. however, this time my experience was so good that for the first time ever I actually thought the service fee of £26 I paid was actually "worth it".
Efficient service with a smile from the door man, to receptionist and case worker. within 40 minutes I am already on my way back. so much better than the VFS.
keep up the good work!
H. A.
I was there yesterday Friday, there were about 20 waiting outside and 50 inside, much less busier than it was 6 years ago when i last was there. Everything was calm. i did not know how to print out the receipt so the lady told me to go to printer. The security (he's Nigerian looking long hair) very nice asking to help then he called another staff to come and help me as well. Extremely helpful, He's tall, short hair, i did not pay for the printout. I then waited 45mins in the room, which was expected anyway, i know it's long. Totally 1hr50mins i spent there. I have not experience any problem, also Tls contact always reply to my email less than 24hrs. Please make sure you have all docs, written correctly. Some dudes there, while i waited, even wrote their DOB wrong format, missing word letter or got the BRP incorrect numbers etc. It will really save you and others time. The agent told me the consular prefer Black and White printing application form.
N. B.
The Good- Easy to get to using public transport (recommended). My consultant was lovely and efficient to deal with.
The Bad- Expect to wait long past your appointment time. On my visit only 4 counters were open for the initial interview. I was lucky to only wait 30 minutes past my schedule time. I would suggest to take a book to occupy yourself with as they have a STRICT no phone policy inside.
I understand that the centre will be busy as their is a high demand BUT then TLS should employ more staff-there is clearly a need for this
The Ugly- A riot nearly broke out while waiting for biometrics. In the waiting room the screen displays that you should take a seat and wait for your ref number to be called. So about 30 people randomly sat down until about 10 min later the guy came and said they are not using the queuing system that day and only started taking whoever sat in the front row. People got very angry as newcomers were getting helped before others who had been waiting for ages just because they weren't in the front. The staff new what was happening but just laughed it off. Also only 3 stations were open so it took a long time.
All in all from the time my appointment was scheduled for to when I left the whole process took 1.5 hours.
K. C.
I made an online application on 27th Jan for my booked travels plans to Paris on 28th Feb. the 15 working days Visa processing timeline is suggested on the website however the earliest appointment I got was on 19th Feb! I was really disappointed and almost cancelled my tickets & hotel. However decided to take my chance and went for the appointment. I've read some really horrible reviews online and was skeptical that I'll have a pleasant experience however to my surprise, I went into the Visa center and was out within 7 minutes!! And what made it even more pleasant was that I received my Visa in 2 working days!!!
Points to remember - carry all the documents mentioned on the site along with receipt of the application (extremely important document and they will not allow you to proceed without it) & appointment confirmation copy.
Good luck!
S. F.
I had a 8.30am appointment arrived on time. Queued for about 10 minutes. At the entrance you have three people checking documentation and will make you re-fill the whole application of you have scribbled off errors and corrected (make sure you don't do this when filling). They check if photos are new and quick look if you have hotel reservation and paid airline tickets. They seem to be rushed and more nervous than the applicants for some reason.
Once I got in, had to stay less that 20 minutes I was called in to a booth. Everything was thoroughly checked and the lady even took a photocopy of my passport that didn't fit the requirements. Very polite and calm. However, I told her to deliver the passport after issue, but she forgot to add that and when I was paying the fee to the lady at the cashier, she said its too late now to change you have to come to the office to collect the passport. Wasn't happy about this I asked if I can ask the lady in the booth to add that option again (since she made the error), but it was "too late now just pay" from the cashier. Unhappy, went to the queue for biometric. Stayed for about 10 minutes and it was done. Everything was done by 9.45am.
I was expecting a hell ride reading the reviews. However it was smooth as it can be in my opinion. The office is definitely small, but not uncomfortable. The staff is mainly Chinese people and their English is not perfect but acceptable. I saw people struggling to understand them sometimes. This is London, so we are used to that right?
I got a email after 4 days for collection. Came to the office at 8.30am, left the office at 8.35am. Really good compared to VFS because TLS allows pickup all day compared to just one hour.
Advice :- Book 8.30am appointment, make sure you have all the documents, with correct photo size, all photo copies, perfectly filled application forms, I promise you will be done in one hour max.
A. N.
I applied for my visa in January which isn't really peak season so the application timeline was quite fast. I completed my application form on a Friday, was able to secure a Monday appointment slot, and the passport was available for collection on Friday the same week.
The practice of having many applicants at the same time slot is very common so you shouldn't be surprised if you apply for travel visa a lot. The appointment duration is admittedly long at around 2 hours from start to finish with a lot of waiting in between, so do come prepared. They're very strict on turning off handphone too. Staff was courteous, polite and helpful otherwise.
Q. H.
It's my first time to apply a visa for France. I was quite nervous, but the people there were really helpful and friendly. The whole process took less than an hour, and I was told the result would come out in around 10 days rather than 20 days. The delivery service is the fastest way to get back your passport, however, you have to pay 14.5 for that. Recommend for someone in a hurry, like me. Anyway, it's a great place, and they will answer you if you have any questions.
o. c.
I applied for a French visa in September. The staff was kind but everything was slow. I arrived at 2 for my appointment at 2:15. I left at 3:15. I had a perfectly good photo from February (6 month) They asked me to take a new one at the premises for 6£.... If i said that it’s 3 months old, they would have taken it.
F. E. S.
staff at all stages were extremely helpful. But when I went up to the Premium Service it was not managed well, and there were no staff present in the outside where the computers are so there were lots of arguments that occurred between the visa applicants which could be avoided if there were more computers or staff present. But overall I had a great experience. n
D. C.
My experience with this place is mixed. When I submitted my documents at the Belgian visa section, the staff were helpful and patient. However, they seem to lack enough knowledge of the visa application process and requirements. e.g. whether to take my finger prints, whether to fill out a form (which was not mentioned in the official document list but I had to do it anyways). Nevertheless the overall experience was ok.
When I went to collect my passport, the lady at the counter greeted me with a smile, but then got impatient when she couldn't find my passport and asked me to hand her my papers. I didn't understand which papers to hand in, and this could have been resolved by telling me calmly, but she spoke in a rude manner. I finally got my passport and visa back. But I do hope that staff at the passport return section can be more patient.
l. z.
This is the first time that I visit the TLS visa application centre in London. I am so impressed by their high quality service, especially the warm-hearted gentleman Brian. My application could be one of the most complicated cases in any days (because of my own mistake). Brian was superb. He didn't hesitate to run around to help me resolve all the issues. All I can say is: My family and myself feel grateful for his excellent service. I cannot speak high enough about this gentleman. Wish him all the best in the future.
S. S.
All the staff have been incredibly helpful. They are very professional doing their best to ensure a great and fast experience for applicants.
A big thank you to Jordan and Theo whom I dealt with. I faced some issue with my appointment
They helped me through the application with smiley cheering faces.
Great Service!!
S. K.
Service and service payoffs are not all appreciated. I was forced to go for premium service and pay extra 28£. Reason I was given that I can’t turn on my phone to reset me account password for a printout at their centre, however I was allowed to turn on my phone and reset the password at their premium centre, not sure exactly what security means. Already they are charging extra on top of visa fee.
Though The staffs at the premium centre were really helpful.
P. L.
Very helpful and polite, may be abit slow in the process of getting your application to the agency during the appointment , but you can't complain about it, there are hundreds of people waiting, so I respects that they are doing the best they can. Beside that, my application was sent back right just one week with a good new . Appreciate the service they provides . Great job , well deserved 5 stars !!!
T. C.
I was a little bit sad because I was late from 10am appointment due to the hard traffic. My advice is plan to come earlier rather then in time. Otherwise you need to rebook your appointment or use the premium service. I used the premium service for £28.
The staff is friendly and helpful. The lady talked a little bit fast so it was a little bit hard to understand.
The service was really quick. (As I used premium ☹️😂). I would say 5mins.
Overall, I would rate all the service 4star.
M. D.
This was the first time using the TLScontact and I did have a lovely experience with them. Before I submitted my application I phone up to get information and they were very helpful. I chose to use the premier lounge which was much quicker and easier for me. The moment I walked through the door someone was ready to take my application and I was assigned to someone within a couple minutes of I been there.
My original time was for 10.30 but I got there by 9.30 and was seen straight away. The service is quick because one guy took the papers and does the photo copy while another one was attending to me. At the other window there was another young lady waiting for me to take my photo. I was out of the building extremely quick. I did applied on the 3rd of October and application was submitted on the 4th and the visa was issued on the 5th for 1 year. I just sign for my passport this morning at home. I would be more than happy to recommend anyone to TLS contact.
Thanks guys you are simple the best.
S. A.
It was so good with them. Specially with mileni , Mohammad and Valentine. Service was very nice in counter no 3. They helped me start to end. For buying travel insurance, fill the application form , printing all of them etc. Specially it is very good for people like us who is from different country. Overall, Fantastic. I would like to give them 10 but sorry there is only 5 availalable.
a. q.
Very good service. I was very scared after reading comments here. But in reality, I found the service excellent. I give them 5 🌟. IGNORE THE COMMENTS just complete your application properly and attach required documents accordingly as mentioned on their website and you are done. Staff is very caring, polite and helpful. I came from Brighton all the way with my family including toddlers, knowing that the toddlers are not allowed in the visa centre, but they found a way and we managed to submit visa applications. I had couple of previous experiences with VFS global, but TLSContact shines. Thanks again for your cooperation and assistance. Keep it up.
A. A.
completely different experience to the other visa application centers. Very nice and friendly staffs. If you forget any doc they will let you to come back. I walked in exactly at my appointment time, my name was called in 15 mins and then i was out of the center in 15 mins. So quick!
One thing - please keep in mind - dont be late. They will ask you to go back and rebook the appointment, this is to show respect to people who arrives on time. Fair enough!
D. G.
On the day of my application, I think there was a new staff member on board. He was friendly but quite slow in checking documents compared to the other member of staff in another counter, there was also a error made on his part which slowed me down a few minutes. But in all, I was out in about a hour. Just make sure to be on time and things should go smoothly.
Suggestion: You should amend your rules to allow usage of phones inside your premises. It will keep your customers busy while they wait. and Come on guys, its 2017. We can use cell phones on airplanes!
S.
Other than the long waiting time, all was okay. The supervisor gets upset if you don't follow rules and if you don't read up in advance and come. Anyone with such a hectic job will get upset though. A lady stood outside and argued with him for an hour cause she had brought her child. Note: Children under 12 aren't allowed so there is no reason to argue if you didnt read up. its simple. fill form on the France visa website, take appointment on TLS contact site and make sure YOU REMEMBER ALL YOUR PASSWORDS!! in case you forget anything to print you will need passwords for both accounts. The supervisor and other reps were pretty nice to us. make sure if you ask for courier, you write your address clearly, and if you are working better to collect passports as they can arrive anytime of the day maybe if you arent home etc. our visas arrived on time and we got 1 year. all was smooth - just follow all rules and you will be good!
M. R.
I had an appointment on 11 August and i was so much afraid as looking into the reviews. But honestly it was exceptional service and very polite. Staff attitude was excellent. Thank you Great service
t. n.
I had an early appointment (8.30) to complete my French visa application. The experience was nowhere near as bad as described in the comment section. I completed my whole visa application within 1 hour due to some errors on my application form. One thing to note though: at the first documentation check, the staff just assumed I was Chinese because of my look - I am Vietnamese. She wrote down China, instead of UK as I wrongly put down, in my application form. For a visa application centre, I expected staff to be trained better to avoid such mistakes as it could easily be interpreted as casual racism.
S. H.
I was a bit apprehensive after reading all the reviews on here but I had a very different experience. I arrived 20 minutes before my appointment. Stood in line for about 15 minutes before being allowed inside. Gentleman at the registration desk was very friendly. Waited for 5 minutes before my name was on the screen and I gave all my documents in. Very professional yet friendly lady helped me. I signed my form in the wrong place and she reprinted it for me. Also my photo wasn't acceptable (I had used the same one for a previous visa) and was told I could just take one and hand it in at the window just outside the building. She directed me to the cashiers desk, I paid and was then expecting a bit of a wait to do my biometrics but no. I went straight through and was done in minutes! So far this has been the most professional and easiest visa application I have been through. Applied for my visa on a Friday and got it on Thursday!
谢.
I am very happy with the service and got my passport back in three days. there was a cute chinese lady named Dora. She was very friendly and smiling all the time. I wish I had courage to ask for her number...
Z. W.
The service is very fast, only two working days, I get my passport, amazing! It is very convenience for customers in this center, the staff is realy nice. I changed the collection method (I chosed the delivery first, but I wanted to change to collection after 10 mimutes) when I told the reception, and they changed it very soon even it seemed a complex procedure for them. When I collect my passport, they are really very kind.
A. I. (. U.
Great Service!!!!!!!
Ignore the comments of bad service, come with all your documents, have them in order and don't use your phone. No problem!! Make sure you have all the documents as the Internet cafe next door is OVERPRICED!!!
Don't take instructions with regards to your applications from the security staff, only listen to the TLS staff. I had a great experience with the staff being very helpful even though I was late by 2 hours!!!!
Bravo!!!
P. L.
It’s the second time I came here for my visa. This time I was so lucky to have Ms. Martha at the assigned counter to check my documents on 4th June. She was very quick and super nice. She made me feel relaxed and easy, totally changed my TLS image. Thank you!
I can rate 5 stars this time because I didn’t have to pass the rude Chinese staff (young woman) at welcome area. My advise to people who will submit in this centre: Try to avoid this “trouble maker” in first step-welcome area.
Z. i.
Excellent service, and really helpful!
Don't be scared by the bad reviews. I was worrying about it too before going. Finally I'd like to say everybody there is very friendly and ready to help. If you think they're trying to put you in troubles, it's just because they want to make sure the documents meet the requirements from France Consulate to help the Visa application, not being asked by them.
You can still insist to submit the application, but take the risk by yourself.
A. O.
review to veronica at the customer service she was very patience with me and stayed with me even after they had closed and guided me through step by step of the visa application form she deserves a medal x
G. R.
It was alright except there was a lot of confusion regarding me and my wife's visa type. I would prefer if the agents are a bit more informative about the "non-standard type" of visa like the short stay scientist and spouse visa we applied for.
Otherwise the agents were very helpful and courteous.
X. X.
I came here for applying France visa of Edinburgh TlScontact today. Stuff of here are very friendly and helpful. No waiting time. Every thing on time. The best thing I would like to say is one of stuff speak Chinese. It was best experience I ever had. I really recommend that if people would like apply visa for France. Here is the best.
D. K.
My appointment on 25 October was very satisfying. The staff were very nice, especially the person dealing with our documents — Dylan! He was very patient, courteous and professional. A great thank you to him specifically.
I. K.
I was a bit concerned looking at low rating in reviews. But in fact that was a great experience, application done within 15-20 min, my business visa at Embassy was made extremely fast and all in time, happy to receive my passport today. Thank you
P. G.
Only the applicants are allowed inside so friends have to wait outside and it can take up to 2 hours.
The visa itself seems to be very straightforward and processed in a few days.
The lady that sits in the window is SO rude and unfriendly. In the middle of serving me she started working on something else making me wait. Then she gave me the someone else's passport. She only checked the last name. She was so careless and hardly apologised. I have never experienced such rude customer service in London before.