Understanding TLS Visas: Your Complete Guide

If you're planning to travel to France, the UK, or any other country using TLScontact services, it's essential to know how the TLS visa process works and what a visa processor is.

TLScontact is a trusted partner for governments worldwide, including France and the UK, to help process visa applications.

Whether you're applying for a French Schengen visa or a UK visa, TLS is the service provider that simplifies the entire process for travelers.

What is a TLS Visa?

A TLS visa refers to a visa application handled through TLScontact, a trusted organization that partners with various governments, such as France and the UK, to process visa applications.

TLScontact is not a government sector and does not issue visas, but instead, facilitates the application process between applicants and government authorities, ensuring that the correct documents are submitted, biometrics are taken, and that the process is smooth and efficient – for both the applicant and the relevant embassy.

What to know about a TLS France visas

For travelers applying for a Schengen visa to visit France, TLScontact handles the application process where they operate. Schengen visas allow travelers to enter France and, usually, other Schengen area countries.

When applying for a France visa with TLS, you'll submit your documents and biometrics through TLScontact and await approval from the French authorities.

What does a TLS visa do?

It’s important to know that a Schengen visa isn’t a TLS visa. In fact, “TLS visa” is a bit of a misnomer.

TLS is a service for applying for Schengen visas. TLScontact handles administrative tasks, like collecting your documents, taking your biometric information, and forwarding everything to the respective embassy or consulate. They are a helpful partner that ensures your application is complete before it's submitted for review by the relevant authorities.

While you can get a visa through TLS, once approved, you hold a Schengen visa...not a TLS visa.

Documents required for TLS visa applications

The documents you’ll need for a TLS Schengen visa application depend on your destination and the type of visa. However, here’s a general idea of the most common requirements for a TLS visa for France:

• Valid passport: With expiration 3 months beyond your intended departure from the Schengen zone.
• Visa application form: Filled out completely and accurately with your information.
• Passport-sized photos: Ensure you follow the photo requirements for a Schengen visa.
• Proof of travel insurance: For Schengen visas, this is mandatory. You can get visa travel insurance entirely online through Insurte.
• Proof of accommodation: A hotel reservation or letter from a host.
• Proof of financial means: Bank statements or proof of income to show you can support yourself during your stay.

Always check the specific requirements for the country you are applying to, as they may differ slightly or have additional requests, such as supplementary documents, notarizations, or translations.

What happens at a TLS appointment?

Once you’ve gathered your documents, you’ll need to book an appointment with TLScontact. At your TLS appointment, you will:

• Submit your documents: Make sure you bring all your required paperwork (this includes your application form and additional documents like proof of travel insurance).
• Provide biometrics: Your fingerprints will be collected at your appointment. You may also have your picture taken or need to create an e-signature.
• Pay visa fees: Any visa-related fees must be paid at the appointment or online before, including any service fees.
• Receive a tracking number: After your appointment, you’ll typically get a tracking number to monitor your application status.

Does TLS process Schengen visas?

Yes, TLScontact processes Schengen visas, including those for France, depending on the country you reside in and other factors. If you're applying for a short-stay visa for tourism, business, or other reasons, TLScontact ensures your application is forwarded to the relevant authorities for approval.

Schengen visas allow entry into 29 European countries (in the Schengen zone) for visits of different lengths, up to 90 days within a 180-day period, though trips can be much shorter than that. They can also be longer, but this requires a long-stay Schengen visa (sometimes called a national visa).

How to track your TLS UK Visa

After your appointment, you’ll receive a tracking number, which you can use to track your application online. Simply log into your TLScontact account, enter the reference number, and follow the progress of your visa application. You’ll be updated on each stage, from processing to decision-making.

How do I know if my UK Visa is approved by TLS?

While TLScontact is not responsible for visa decisions, they will notify you once a decision has been made by the embassy.

To know if your visa has been approved, check the status using your tracking number, or wait for an email or text notification from TLScontact, which will inform you to collect your passport. If you are having your passport mailed back to you, you’ll also know when you receive your post.

Key Takeaways for TLSContact

• TLScontact acts as a service provider, processing visa applications for countries like France (Schengen visas) and the UK.
• TLSContact is not a government entity. They are a legitimate and approved partner.
• You’ll need essential documents like a valid passport, visa application form, passport photos, proof of travel insurance, and proof of financial means when applying for a Schengen visa through TLSContact. Additional documentation may also be required.
• At your TLS appointment, you’ll submit documents, provide biometrics, and receive a tracking number to track the status of your application, including whether or not it has been approved.
• TLS processes Schengen visas for some countries, making the process more streamlined.
• You can track your TLS visa application online.