Visa processing speed: VFS vs Embassy
I am applying for a Schengen Visa for Switzerland at London. To submit my application, I can choose to go to the VFS Visa Application Centre or the Embassy of Switzerland directly. I wonder which option would result in getting back my passport faster.
I know that the VFS Centre will deliver my application to the Embassy by the end of the day of my appointment, which means this method will be one day slower than going to the Embassy. However, the VFS Centre can return my passport using a courier, while the Embassy will only use regular postal service. If I collect in person, at VFS I can collect on the same day when my visa is processed, but at the Embassy I can only collect on the next day because the Embassy is only open in the morning.
So which way do you recommend if time is my top concern?
Best Answer
If time is your top concern you would use the VFS at Paddington Station or the VFS at 66 Wilson Street. Although they will not deliver your application until close of business following your appointment you can pick up your passport at the VFS without having to queue at the Swiss Embassy.
Logistically, Paddington Station is better connected to the tube and 66 Wilson Street is a 10 minute walk from Liverpool Street Station, which connects all the major tube lines. The Swiss Embassy, on the other hand, is inside Marylebone and the nearest tube stop is Edgware Road. It's also a 10 minute walk, but as mentioned above you face queues.
In the absence of all other information, you're better off nearer to a major train station and have the opportunity to collect your passport on the same day (or sent by courier).
Pictures about "Visa processing speed: VFS vs Embassy"
How long does it take to get visa from VFS?
Processing usually takes 15 business days from receipt by the Embassy of a complete application and may take longer during peak times and in exceptional circumstances.How long does an embassy visa take?
Upon receipt of the Visa Application through Indian Visa Application Center or directly, the Indian Mission/ Post requires a minimum of three working days to process the case and issue a visa depending upon the nationality and excluding special cases.How long does embassy take to process?
The entire visa application processing takes somewhere between two weeks and four months, depending on the type of visa. Please check what visa category you are going to need to have enough time left for the application process.Is VFS fast?
For Priority Visa applicants, the process takes 3\u20135 days, while for Super Priority Visa applicants, this speeds up to a single business day. Super Priority Visa Service is available at VFS Global's UK visa application centres in New Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai.VFS vs Embassy | Difference Between VFS and Embassy | What is VFS Global | What is Embassy Service
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