Schengen Visa Application in the UK: VFS, TLS, and BLS Explained
I used to wonder why each country requires a different application center when applying for a Schengen visa from the UK. VFS, TLS, BLS – each has its own way of filling out forms, booking appointments, and submitting documents. How do you know which center to use?
Today, I'm sharing my personal experience to help anyone preparing to apply avoid confusion.
1. TLScontact: France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, and More
✅ Countries using TLS in the UK: France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Estonia.
✅ Process:
- Fill out the visa application form on the respective country's system (e.g., France-Visas for France, VIDEX for Germany).
- Then, switch to TLScontact to book an appointment, upload documents, and track the application status.
✅ Key Features:
- You create a separate account on TLScontact, independent of VFS.
- Photos and documents must be the correct standard size; many countries are very strict about this.
- Some countries (like Germany) require filling out a separate PDF form outside the TLS system, so handle it carefully.
🤔 Important Considerations:
- Countries using TLS tend to be quite strict in reviewing applications (France is an exception). So, if your application isn't strong or you have limited finances, prepare thoroughly.
I was once only granted a 15-day, single-entry visa when applying for Belgium.
- I really don't like France-Visas because the interface is a bit difficult to use.
2. VFS Global: Italy, Portugal, Greece, Sweden, Norway, and More
✅ Some countries using VFS in the UK: Italy, Portugal, Greece, Sweden, Norway, Finland, etc.
✅ Process:
- Some countries let you fill out the form directly on the VFS website.
- Others (like Italy) require you to fill out the form externally and upload it.
✅ Key Features:
- Booking appointments is done directly through the VFS website, which has a stable and user-friendly interface.
- You can add extra services such as SMS updates, photo services, insurance, and express delivery.
🤔 My Experience:
- With VFS, the biggest challenge is constantly checking for available appointment slots. Sometimes, it's not about the strength of your application, but simply not being able to book an appointment.
3. BLS International: Spain Only
✅ The BLS system exclusively handles visa applications for Spain (in the UK).
✅ Process:
- Create an account on the Spain Visa Portal.
- Fill out the visa application form directly on the system.
✅ Additional Services:
- There's a Premium package (around £250) and a VIP package (ranging from £300–£400 per person) if you want a fast-track slot during peak season.
🤔 My Experience:
- BLS is my favorite center: the interface isn't as pretty as TLS, but it's very convenient.
- Everything from filling out the application to uploading documents is within one system, making it less confusing and easier to track.
This is based on my personal experience and research. Hopefully, it helps you when deciding which country to apply to!
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