The UK is introducing biometric capture into the visa application process to improve the security of the visa operation and to protect better the visa holder's identities. In the longer-term passage through the UK's border control will be easier with biometrically enabled visas.
In order to achieve the full benefits of biometric capture as early as possible, we now need to limit the issue of long-term, ' non-biometric' visit visas.
Therefore, with immediate effect, we will not be issuing any 10- year multiple entry visit visas. Applicants who have previously held 5 or 10 year visas will be able to apply for a maximum 5-year ' non-biometric' multiple entry visit visa.
We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause customers who apply during this moratorium period. As a result of this inconvenience, following the introduction of biometrics, we shall offer free extensions of 5 or 10 years visas to those affected who return to enrol their biometrics during the validity of their 'non-biometric ' visa.
Further information, including details of the timing for the introduction of biometrics, will be added to this site as, and when, it is available.
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