TLScontact is a commercial partner of the UK Home Office, contracted to deliver overseas visa application centre services on behalf of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Most applicants applying for a UK visa from outside the UK are required to attend a biometric appointment, which is arranged through TLScontact in countries where it operates as the appointed provider. The TLScontact platform supports appointment booking, document upload (where self-upload is authorised), and selection of optional services such as courier return or premium centre access.
Visa applications are submitted through GOV.UK. After completing the form and payment online, applicants are redirected to the correct TLScontact portal for their country of application. Through this portal, they must register a TLScontact account and verify their email address before accessing the dashboard to book appointments and manage post-submission services.
This article explains how to access and use the TLScontact login system, including how to create an account, how to sign in, and how to manage appointments and other features after logging in. It also addresses common login issues, the differences between TLScontact and GOV.UK accounts, and what to expect in terms of functionality, security, and system limitations.
Section A: What Is TLScontact?
TLScontact operates as an external service provider appointed by the UK Home Office to support visa application procedures for individuals applying from outside the United Kingdom. It delivers in-country support functions that are required after a visa application is submitted on the GOV.UK website. Applicants interact with TLScontact for biometric enrolment and for handling tasks such as scheduling appointments, submitting documentation (where permitted), and selecting optional services. The company’s operations are governed by a service agreement with the Home Office, which defines its role strictly as administrative and non-decision-making.
1. Role and responsibilities within the UK visa system
TLScontact does not assess visa eligibility, make decisions on applications, or provide immigration advice. Its role is limited to logistical and support services that assist UK Visas and Immigration in processing visa applications submitted from abroad. These responsibilities include managing appointment bookings for biometric enrolment, collecting required documents, offering optional support services, and returning passports once a decision has been made.
After completing the visa application form and paying the relevant fee on GOV.UK, applicants are redirected to the TLScontact portal that corresponds to their country of application. Through this portal, they create an account, verify their email, schedule their appointment at a visa application centre, and access any other services available in that location. While TLScontact provides secure handling of documents and biometric data, the outcome of an application is determined exclusively by UKVI.
2. Scope of services provided and excluded
TLScontact’s services cover logistical steps that must be completed after the online application and payment have been submitted through GOV.UK. These include appointment scheduling, identity verification through biometrics, document collection or upload, and customer service related to those processes. In some locations, applicants can also access optional services such as premium lounges, courier return of documents, and assisted document scanning. Availability and pricing vary by region.
TLScontact does not accept visa applications, process payments for Home Office fees, or issue immigration decisions. Those functions are managed entirely by GOV.UK and UKVI. TLScontact also does not offer guidance on visa eligibility, document requirements, or how to complete the application form. Questions about visa categories or required documents must be directed to UKVI or an authorised immigration adviser.
3. Where TLScontact operates
As of 2025, TLScontact manages UK visa application centres in a number of countries across Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and selected parts of Asia. These include France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, China, Algeria, Tunisia, Turkey, and several countries in Eastern Europe. Country coverage may change depending on Home Office procurement arrangements.
Applicants are automatically directed to the correct TLS portal based on their selected country of application when completing their visa form on GOV.UK. It is not possible to choose between TLScontact and another provider such as VFS Global, as the Home Office assigns providers based on location.
4. Conclusion
TLScontact delivers administrative visa support services under contract to the UK Home Office in selected countries outside the UK. It manages biometric appointments, document intake, and post-submission logistics but does not assess eligibility or decide visa outcomes. The platform is used in countries where UKVI has awarded the service contract to TLScontact and is required for accessing in-country services after completing the online application through GOV.UK.
Section B: What Is a TLScontact Account?
A TLScontact account is required for applicants applying for a UK visa from outside the United Kingdom in a country where TLScontact operates the visa application centre on behalf of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). After completing the application and payment through GOV.UK, applicants are directed to the relevant TLScontact portal to complete the next administrative steps. Creating an account is necessary to access those services. Without an account, applicants cannot book their biometric appointment or access features such as document upload or optional services, where these are available locally.
The account links the applicant’s information to a country-specific portal and ensures that further interactions—such as appointment management and service selection—are tied to the correct visa centre and jurisdiction. Applicants must use the same portal throughout their application and cannot transfer their account between countries.
1. Function of the TLScontact account
The TLScontact account provides secure access to the online platform used for managing biometric appointments, uploading documents (where applicable), and receiving post-submission instructions. After submitting the application on GOV.UK and paying the visa fee, the applicant is redirected to the TLScontact portal associated with their country of application. The account is created by entering personal information, including the email address and UKVI reference number, and confirming these details via an email verification link.
Account access is granted only after the verification step is completed. Once activated, the applicant can log in to their dashboard to book or modify appointments, upload documents where the service is enabled, view appointment instructions, and receive notification emails from TLScontact. The account remains active for the duration of the application and must be used for all interactions related to local visa centre procedures.
In some locations, uploading supporting documents is mandatory before attending the appointment. In others, applicants may be asked to bring their paperwork in person for assisted scanning. The services available vary depending on the country and local agreement between TLScontact and the UK Home Office.
2. Difference between TLScontact and GOV.UK accounts
The GOV.UK account is used to submit the UK visa application and pay the associated Home Office fee. This account is created on the official UK government website and is where the application process begins. Once the form is submitted, a UKVI reference number is generated. That number is used to link the applicant’s case to the services that follow on TLScontact.
The TLScontact account is created after submission and is used only for managing appointment-related logistics. These two platforms operate independently. TLScontact cannot access or amend the data submitted on GOV.UK, and GOV.UK does not provide access to the in-country services managed by TLScontact. Login details are not shared between platforms, and applicants must use separate email addresses and passwords for each system. Both accounts are required to complete the full application process.
3. Why both accounts are necessary
The UK visa process for applicants applying from outside the UK involves two systems with distinct roles. GOV.UK handles the application form, payment, and generation of the UKVI reference number. TLScontact manages appointment bookings, biometric enrolment, and supporting documentation for countries where it operates visa application centres.
Applicants who do not proceed from GOV.UK to TLScontact will be unable to book an appointment, and their application will remain incomplete. Similarly, no action can be taken on the TLScontact platform until the GOV.UK application has been submitted and paid for. Each system supports a different stage of the process, and neither can replace the other.
Applicants are required to move between the two systems in sequence. Records are linked using the UKVI reference number, but each platform has its own rules, interface, and service options. Maintaining login access to both accounts is necessary from application through to document return.
4. Conclusion
A TLScontact account is required to complete in-country procedures for UK visa applications submitted from regions where TLScontact is the appointed service provider. It is separate from the GOV.UK account and cannot be used to submit the visa form or pay application fees. Each system plays a defined role and must be accessed in the correct sequence. Applicants are responsible for maintaining accurate login details and ensuring that all information entered into both systems is consistent and up to date.
Section C: How to Access the TLS Contact Login
After submitting their visa application and payment on GOV.UK, applicants must use the TLScontact login system to manage in-country requirements, such as booking a biometric appointment and, where applicable, uploading supporting documents. TLScontact operates separate portals for each country where it delivers services, and login credentials are only valid on the portal where the account was originally registered. Attempting to log in via the wrong country portal may prevent the applicant from booking appointments or accessing available features.
Each TLScontact account is tied to the location where the applicant intends to attend their biometric appointment. Users must always return to the same regional portal to access their dashboard and complete any further actions related to their application.
1. Locating the correct country-specific portal
After submitting the visa form on GOV.UK, the applicant is redirected to the appropriate TLScontact portal based on the selected country of application. That portal must be used to create a TLScontact account and carry out appointment scheduling and other post-submission tasks. Each portal operates independently, and accounts cannot be transferred across country portals.
If the redirect is missed or the applicant revisits the site manually at a later point, they must select the correct country from the dropdown menu on the TLScontact homepage. Using a login intended for one country on a different portal will not work, even if the email and password are correct. This restriction is built into the TLScontact system to maintain data security and proper application routing.
2. Connection between GOV.UK and TLS login access
After completing the online application and payment on GOV.UK, the applicant receives a UKVI reference number and is redirected to the TLScontact portal. That reference number links their visa case to the post-submission steps handled by TLScontact. The account registration form on TLScontact must include matching details, such as the same email address, full name, and date of birth used during the GOV.UK application.
The applicant must verify their email address by clicking a confirmation link before the account becomes active. Logging in is only possible after verification is completed. If the verification email is not received, applicants should check their spam folder or request a new confirmation link. The GOV.UK and TLScontact systems are distinct but interconnected at this stage, and any mismatch between data entered may block access to required services.
Applicants are strongly advised not to bookmark TLScontact’s homepage before reaching it via GOV.UK, as doing so may lead them to the wrong regional portal. Each redirection includes embedded tracking that ensures they land on the correct version of the site linked to their UKVI application.
3. New account access vs returning user login
Applicants using TLScontact for the first time must register an account through the country-specific portal and complete the email verification process. Once verified, they will be able to log in and access the appointment booking system and other features.
Returning users who previously applied from the same country may use their existing TLScontact account. However, when submitting a new application, they will need to enter the new UKVI reference number so it can be added to their dashboard. Reuse of the same account is possible only if it was originally registered on the same country portal.
Creating multiple accounts with the same personal information can result in login errors, account lockout, or duplicate files. If applicants cannot remember whether they completed verification or have forgotten their password, they should use the “Forgot your password?” feature instead of re-registering with the same email address. Support teams may take longer to resolve issues caused by duplicate profiles.
4. Conclusion
Successful access to TLScontact services depends on using the correct country-specific portal and ensuring that the information provided matches what was submitted on GOV.UK. Applicants must register a new account if applying from a new country and verify their email address before using the platform. Those returning to apply again from the same country should reuse their existing account and ensure their new UKVI reference number is added correctly. GOV.UK and TLScontact are separate systems that work together, and applicants are expected to manage access to both portals for the full duration of the visa application process.
Section D: TLS Login Instructions
After submitting their UK visa application and payment on GOV.UK, applicants must log in to the TLScontact portal linked to their country of application to manage appointment bookings and any post-submission requirements. TLScontact operates individual portals for each country, and login credentials are valid only on the portal where the account was originally created. Attempting to access the system through the wrong country portal or entering incorrect details can result in failed login attempts or blocked access to essential services.
A successful login requires a verified email address, an exact match for the registered credentials, and access through the correct portal. Applicants who are unable to log in may experience delays in scheduling their appointment or accessing support services.
1. How to log in to a TLScontact account
To log in, the applicant must visit the TLScontact portal for the country where they are applying. A “Login” button is typically found in the top-right corner of the homepage. Clicking it opens a secure login panel where the user is prompted to enter their registered email address and the password created during account registration.
If the credentials are valid and the email has been verified, the user will be directed to their dashboard. From there, they can manage their appointment, access document upload (if enabled), and view updates related to their visa application. If login fails, an error message will appear. In some cases, the applicant may be prompted to reset their password or verify their email if the account is still inactive.
Login access is restricted to the specific country portal used at registration. Attempting to use the same credentials on a different country’s portal will not work, even if the email and password are correct. Each portal is a separate system tied to the local visa centre.
2. Credentials required to log in
To log in successfully, applicants must enter the same email address and password used when creating the account. TLScontact systems are case-sensitive and may reject credentials if there are even minor differences from what was submitted. Common errors include added spaces, incorrect capitalisation, or outdated credentials stored in auto-fill settings.
Applicants should ensure they continue to have access to the registered email address, as it is used to receive password reset links, status notifications, and login recovery support. TLScontact does not support login using a phone number, UKVI reference number, or any third-party authentication system.
3. Email verification and activation
When a new TLScontact account is created, it remains inactive until the applicant verifies their email address. The system sends a confirmation link to the email address entered during registration. The applicant must click this link to activate their account and gain access to the login system.
If the verification email is not received, the applicant should check their spam or junk folder. Some TLScontact portals allow users to request a new verification email if the original link has expired. Without verifying the email address, users will not be able to log in or proceed with booking an appointment. This is one of the most common causes of login failure, even when the correct credentials are being used.
4. Troubleshooting login issues
Login issues may result from incorrect password entry, using the wrong country portal, or account duplication. Applicants who rely on auto-filled passwords stored in their browser should check that the credentials are accurate and up to date. If the login fails, the applicant should use the “Forgot your password?” link on the login page to request a reset. A new password can be set once the link sent to the registered email is activated.
Some applicants attempt to create multiple accounts using the same email address or personal details, which can trigger system errors or block access. If the system indicates that an account already exists, the applicant should attempt to recover the existing profile rather than registering again. Duplicate accounts may lead to appointment issues or delays in accessing services.
Accounts must be accessed through the portal used during registration. If the applicant attempts to log in through a different country’s TLScontact site, their account will not be recognised. When login issues cannot be resolved through the password reset or verification tools, applicants should contact TLScontact support through the enquiry form available on the relevant country portal. Applicants should provide their full name, registered email address, UKVI reference number, and a clear description of the issue to assist support staff in resolving the problem efficiently.
5. Conclusion
TLScontact login is required to manage key parts of the UK visa application process after the GOV.UK stage. Login success depends on using the correct country portal, verified credentials, and accurate data entry. Common errors include unverified accounts, incorrect passwords, and cross-portal login attempts. TLScontact provides recovery options for forgotten credentials, but applicants should avoid duplicate registrations and retain access to their registered email address throughout the visa process.
Section E: TLS Services Available After Login
After logging in to their TLScontact account, applicants can complete several required actions, such as booking biometric appointments and, in some locations, uploading documents. Additional services may also be offered for convenience but are not mandatory and do not affect how the application is decided. Service availability depends on the applicant’s country of application and the configuration of their local visa centre.
The TLScontact portal allows users to access both standard and optional features, depending on the permissions set by UKVI for their visa category and region. While the layout and core structure of the dashboard remain broadly consistent across countries, the services offered within the portal are specific to the local visa application centre.
1. Booking and rescheduling appointments
The primary function of the TLScontact account is to allow applicants to book their required biometric appointment at a UK visa application centre. Appointment booking becomes available once the account is activated and the applicant has logged in. Users can select a date and time from available slots, confirm the appointment, and receive instructions by email.
Applicants may reschedule their appointment before the booked date, subject to availability and local rules. Some centres restrict how close to the scheduled time changes can be made. Missed appointments usually require rebooking, and in some cases, a rebooking fee may apply or the appointment must be restarted through the dashboard. Appointment access remains active until biometrics have been successfully enrolled.
2. Uploading supporting documents
In some countries, UKVI allows applicants to upload supporting documents directly through the TLScontact portal. Upload access is typically enabled after the visa application has been submitted and paid for on GOV.UK, and may also require the biometric appointment to be booked first. The upload function appears in the dashboard where this service is permitted.
Applicants must ensure that all uploaded documents meet UKVI format, size, and naming standards. The documents must also align with the evidence requirements set out for the specific visa type. TLScontact does not review, check, or approve uploaded content and cannot provide feedback or confirmation on whether the evidence is sufficient. The responsibility for submitting complete and correct documentation rests entirely with the applicant.
Where upload is not available, applicants are expected to bring printed documents to their appointment for assisted scanning. Some centres offer this as part of the standard service, while others may charge a fee. The availability of self-upload and assisted scanning varies by region.
3. Choosing optional services
TLScontact offers a range of optional services in certain locations. These services are not required for visa processing and do not influence how long the application takes or the decision outcome. They are designed to improve convenience or comfort and are paid for separately by the applicant.
Optional services may include courier return of documents, access to a premium lounge at the visa centre, assisted scanning, SMS updates, and onsite document printing. These services can often be selected when booking the appointment or added later through the dashboard. Charges are applied in local currency and are non-refundable once the service is delivered.
Applicants should note that priority and super priority services are offered only through GOV.UK during the visa application stage. TLScontact cannot add these options later or upgrade the service after submission. Use of any TLScontact premium services has no bearing on the speed or outcome of the application.
4. Tracking application handling
Once the applicant has attended their appointment and completed their biometrics, the TLScontact portal may display limited updates on the handling of their documents. These updates may confirm that the application has been forwarded to UKVI, that a decision has been received, or that the passport is ready for collection or delivery. The information is limited to logistics and does not include any decision content or reasoning.
UKVI communicates the outcome of the visa application separately. In most cases, the decision will be provided directly to the applicant via email, through their GOV.UK account, or via document return. TLScontact does not issue or comment on visa decisions and cannot provide updates about case progress beyond status changes linked to document movement.
Applicants should expect to see only basic status indicators within the TLS portal. Updates typically include appointment confirmation, biometric attendance, document dispatch, and passport readiness for return. No case-specific information or decision-related feedback is provided.
5. Conclusion
The TLScontact login provides access to a range of post-submission services that support the UK visa application process from outside the United Kingdom. These include appointment booking, document upload (where available), and optional services such as courier delivery or assisted scanning. TLScontact plays an administrative role and does not take part in the visa decision. Applicants are responsible for completing all required actions shown in their dashboard, based on the setup of their country portal and the permissions granted by UKVI for their visa category.
Section F: Common Login Problems
Applicants occasionally encounter problems when attempting to log in to their TLScontact account. These are most often caused by forgotten credentials, incomplete registration, or attempting to log in on the wrong country portal. While the TLScontact system is designed to protect user data through strict access rules, these same protections can cause login difficulties if account creation or verification has not been completed correctly.
Login problems are often avoidable but may still occur even when the correct information is entered. The most frequent causes are outlined below, along with guidance on how to resolve them.
1. Forgotten password or email
The most common login issue is a forgotten password. The login page includes a “Forgot your password?” link, which allows users to request a password reset. The reset link will be sent to the registered email address and must be activated to set a new password. If the email does not arrive, users should check their spam or junk folder.
Password resets only work through the same country-specific TLScontact portal where the account was originally created. Attempting to reset a password through a different country portal will not work, even with correct credentials.
If the applicant has forgotten the email address used during registration, recovery becomes more difficult. TLScontact does not allow login or recovery using a UKVI reference number or personal identification documents. In this situation, the applicant should avoid creating a duplicate account and instead contact TLScontact support via the country-specific help form.
2. Unverified account issues
Another common issue occurs when an applicant has registered for a TLScontact account but has not completed the email verification step. After registration, a confirmation email is sent with a link that must be clicked to activate the account. Until this verification is completed, login access will not be granted.
Some TLS portals offer an option to resend the verification email if the original has expired. If the resend function is unavailable and the original link cannot be retrieved, the applicant may need to register again using a new email address. However, re-registration should only be done if no access or recovery options remain.
Applicants should not assume that completing the GOV.UK visa application also creates or verifies a TLScontact account. The two systems are separate, and account activation on TLScontact requires its own confirmation process.
3. Multiple accounts or country portal mismatch
TLScontact accounts are tied to the country portal where they were originally created. Attempting to log in through a different country’s portal—even using the correct credentials—will result in a failed login, as accounts are not recognised across different national portals.
This type of error often occurs when users find the TLScontact site via a search engine and land on the wrong regional page. Applicants must always return to the portal for the country of application using the link provided after GOV.UK submission.
Creating more than one account using the same personal details can cause errors in appointment booking or document tracking. If an applicant suspects they have more than one account, they should not attempt to use both. Instead, they should try to access the account they believe was verified, and contact support if unsure which profile is valid.
4. When and how to contact TLS support
If login problems cannot be resolved through password resets or email verification, the applicant should contact TLScontact through the enquiry form available on the portal for their country. Some regions may also offer email addresses or limited telephone support, though these services usually focus on appointment-related queries.
When submitting a support request, applicants should provide the following:
- Full name (as registered)
- Registered email address
- UKVI reference number
- Clear explanation of the login issue, including any error messages received
Response times vary depending on location and workload. Some centres may take several days to respond. Applicants should not expect immediate support in all locations. Queries about visa eligibility, document requirements, or visa decisions should be directed to UKVI or a qualified immigration adviser, as TLScontact cannot assist with these matters.
5. Conclusion
Most TLScontact login problems are related to incorrect credentials, unverified accounts, or login attempts made on the wrong country portal. Users are advised to keep a secure record of their login details and to verify their email address as soon as they register. Creating multiple accounts should be avoided. When recovery options are exhausted, TLScontact support can assist, provided the request includes accurate and complete information.
Section G: TLS vs GOV.UK: When to Use Each
The UK visa application process for applicants outside the United Kingdom is managed across two platforms: GOV.UK and TLScontact. Each platform is responsible for different stages of the application, and both must be used for the process to be completed successfully. These platforms operate separately and serve distinct purposes. Confusion often arises when applicants assume one platform can be used in place of the other, especially when switching between them at different stages. It is essential to understand how each platform works and why both are required.
GOV.UK is the official UK government portal used to start and submit the visa application. TLScontact is a third-party provider appointed by the Home Office in certain countries to manage in-country logistics such as biometric appointments and document handling. Each step must be completed through the correct platform in the proper order, and the applicant must maintain access to both systems throughout the visa process.
1. Tasks managed via GOV.UK
The GOV.UK website is the official platform for submitting UK visa applications. Applicants use this site to complete the visa application form, answer eligibility questions, upload a passport-style photograph if prompted, and pay the relevant visa fee to the Home Office. Once submitted, the application generates an application reference number (typically starting with GWF), which is used to track the visa process.
GOV.UK may also present a personalised list of required documents depending on the visa type and applicant’s profile. In some cases, applicants may be prompted to upload evidence through the UKVI system, but this is more common for in-country applications. For most overseas applications, document submission is handled through TLScontact or the appointed commercial partner.
After completing the GOV.UK application, users are directed to the TLScontact website for their country of application. This redirect includes tracking to ensure the correct portal is opened for further steps such as appointment booking and document handling.
2. Tasks handled through TLScontact
After the GOV.UK form is submitted and payment has been made, applicants must register on the TLScontact portal for their country (where TLScontact has been appointed as the service provider). TLScontact is responsible for managing in-country logistics such as biometric enrolment, document upload or scanning, and the booking of visa application centre appointments.
Once registered and verified, applicants can use the TLScontact portal to schedule their biometric appointment, download appointment instructions, upload documents (where self-upload is permitted), and purchase optional services such as courier passport return or access to a premium lounge. TLScontact may also issue appointment confirmations and reminders.
In countries where document upload is not offered, TLScontact provides assisted scanning at the visa centre. Applicants are required to bring all supporting evidence to their appointment in line with the guidance issued during booking. TLScontact then forwards the documentation securely to UKVI for assessment. The platform does not provide updates on visa decisions.
3. Why both platforms are necessary and non-interchangeable
GOV.UK and TLScontact operate under different legal and operational frameworks. GOV.UK is the UK government’s official site and is used to submit the visa application, make payment, and generate the reference number. TLScontact is a commercial service provider contracted to carry out administrative services on behalf of the Home Office in certain countries.
Applicants cannot complete the visa application using only one of these platforms. GOV.UK is used for the initial submission, while TLScontact is used to complete the mandatory in-country steps. Skipping either platform will result in an incomplete application and may lead to refusal or delay.
Information submitted through GOV.UK cannot be edited or amended via TLScontact, and TLScontact staff cannot assist with form-related issues or application corrections. Similarly, GOV.UK cannot be used to manage appointments, upload documents through TLScontact, or select local support services.
Applicants must use both accounts with the correct login credentials and keep track of their access throughout the application process. Failure to do so can result in missed appointments, processing delays, or administrative error.
4. Conclusion
The UK visa application process is structured across two separate but interlinked platforms: GOV.UK and TLScontact. GOV.UK manages the application form, payment, and issue of the application reference number, while TLScontact supports biometric appointments, document collection, and appointment centre services in selected countries. Both platforms are required, and applicants must complete each stage in the correct sequence to comply with UKVI requirements. Attempting to complete the process using only one platform will result in an incomplete application.
Section H: Security and Data Protection
TLScontact processes and securely stores personal data on behalf of the UK Home Office, under contractual arrangements, to support the visa application process. Applicants provide sensitive personal information when creating an account, uploading documents, and attending a biometric appointment. TLScontact is required to implement data protection and privacy controls in accordance with both UK data protection law and relevant local regulations.
Data entered into the TLScontact platform is securely transmitted to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and used solely for the lawful purposes of processing the visa application. Applicants are expected to provide accurate and consistent details at every stage. Mismatches or inconsistencies may delay processing or cause access issues across GOV.UK and TLScontact platforms.
1. TLScontact account security practices
TLScontact uses a combination of technical and procedural safeguards to protect personal data. During account creation, applicants must register a valid email address, create a secure password, and complete email verification. Login sessions are encrypted, subject to timeouts, and monitored for repeated failed attempts, which may trigger account lockout.
Uploaded documents are transmitted securely and are only accessible to authorised TLScontact staff and UKVI caseworkers. TLScontact platforms are hosted on secure servers, and access is protected by browser session controls. While TLScontact provides a secure infrastructure, applicants are also responsible for protecting their account credentials. Users should avoid accessing their accounts from shared or public devices and must not share passwords with third parties.
2. UK GDPR compliance
As a data processor acting on behalf of the UK government, TLScontact is subject to the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. The company is required to collect and process only the personal data necessary for visa-related purposes, store it securely, and dispose of it in line with Home Office retention schedules.
Applicants have the right to request access to their personal data or to request corrections of any inaccurate or outdated information. These rights are subject to identity verification and are exercised through TLScontact’s privacy notice, which is available on each country-specific portal.
TLScontact does not use applicant data for marketing or profiling. Personal information is not shared with any third parties unless required by UKVI or mandated by law. All data transfers are carried out using secure channels under the terms of the contract between the UK Home Office and TLScontact.
3. Why personal data must match GOV.UK submission
The personal data entered during TLScontact registration must match the information submitted on GOV.UK, including name, date of birth, and email address. Any discrepancies may prevent the UKVI application reference number from being correctly linked to the TLScontact account. This can block appointment scheduling, document upload, or access to services.
The UKVI reference number generated during the GOV.UK application is the unique identifier that allows the two systems to connect. Applicants should take care to enter all information consistently and double-check the accuracy of every field during registration.
TLScontact cannot amend or correct any information submitted through GOV.UK. If the applicant identifies an error in the GOV.UK form, they must contact UKVI or follow the appropriate procedure to update or withdraw their application.
4. Conclusion
TLScontact complies with UK GDPR when handling applicant data and operates secure systems to manage personal information. Applicants are responsible for entering consistent, accurate details and protecting their account access. Data submitted on GOV.UK and TLScontact must align in full to allow records to be linked and the application to proceed without error. Security controls are in place, but applicants should also follow best practices when managing their login and personal data.
Section I: Conclusion
The TLScontact login gives overseas visa applicants access to in-country steps that must be completed after submitting their application on GOV.UK. These include biometric appointments, document handling, and optional service selection in regions where TLScontact operates under contract to the UK Home Office. Without logging in to the correct TLScontact portal, applicants cannot proceed with these required administrative stages.
Maintaining access to the TLScontact account is important throughout the duration of the application. Applicants should register using a valid email address, complete the email verification promptly, and store their login credentials securely. The same account must be used each time the applicant returns to the portal. Passwords should be kept confidential and updated if necessary using the password reset function.
It is also essential to access the correct country portal. TLScontact accounts do not transfer across different regional sites. Attempting to log in through the wrong country’s portal may block access entirely. If login problems occur, applicants should not create a new account. Instead, they should use the password recovery tools or contact support through the help section on their TLScontact country portal.
Each regional TLS site includes a support contact form. Submitting accurate information—such as the full name, registered email address, UKVI reference number, and country of application—will help avoid delays and improve the chances of receiving a prompt response.
Using the correct portal, maintaining accurate account information, and acting promptly on verification and appointment tasks are all necessary to avoid administrative delays in the UK visa process.
Section J: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to register with TLScontact after submitting my visa application on GOV.UK?
Yes. Once the application and payment are completed on GOV.UK, applicants are directed to the TLScontact portal for their country of application. Registration on that portal is required in order to book an appointment and access further services. TLScontact is used only in countries where it is the appointed commercial partner.
Is the TLScontact login the same as my GOV.UK account?
No. The two platforms are separate. GOV.UK is used to complete the visa application form and make the payment. TLScontact is used to schedule the biometric appointment and manage in-country administrative tasks. Each platform requires its own account and login credentials.
Can I use my TLScontact account from one country to apply in another?
No. TLScontact accounts are specific to the country portal where they were created. If an applicant moves or chooses to apply from a different country, they will need to register a new account on the relevant portal.
What should I do if I forget my TLScontact password?
The login page includes a “Forgot your password?” link that allows users to request a password reset. The system will send a reset link to the email address registered with the account. Do not create a new account with the same email, as this may result in duplicate account issues. If the email is no longer accessible, support must be requested through the country-specific TLScontact site.
Can TLScontact tell me the outcome of my visa application?
No. TLScontact does not receive or issue visa decisions. Decision outcomes are communicated by UK Visas and Immigration, usually via email or through the applicant’s GOV.UK account. TLScontact provides updates only for appointment and document-handling stages.
Is it safe to upload my documents through TLScontact?
Yes. TLScontact uses secure encryption and complies with the UK GDPR when handling personal data. Uploaded documents are transmitted securely to UKVI and are not shared for any other purpose.
Why does my TLScontact account say it cannot find my application?
This usually happens when the personal details used to register on TLScontact do not match the information submitted on GOV.UK. Differences in email address, name format, or date of birth may prevent the system from linking the two profiles. The UKVI reference number must also be entered correctly.
How can I contact TLScontact for help with login or technical problems?
Each TLScontact country portal includes a help or support section with a contact form. Some regions also provide email support or telephone numbers for technical queries. Applicants should include their full name, UKVI reference number, registered email address, and their country of application when submitting a request to help route the enquiry efficiently.
Section K: Glossary
GOV.UK | The official website of the UK government used to complete and submit the UK visa application, pay the visa fee, and receive the application reference number. |
TLScontact | A commercial partner appointed by the UK Home Office in certain countries to provide visa application centre services, including biometric appointments and document collection. |
UKVI | UK Visas and Immigration, the division of the UK Home Office responsible for managing the country’s visa system and making decisions on visa applications. |
Application Reference Number | A unique identifier, typically beginning with “GWF,” issued after submitting a visa application through GOV.UK. It is used to track the case across systems. |
Biometric Appointment | An in-person appointment where visa applicants provide fingerprints and a digital photograph at a visa application centre. |
Email Verification | The required step where users confirm their email address by clicking a link sent after registering an account on TLScontact. |
Country Portal | The TLScontact website specific to the applicant’s country of application. Each country portal operates independently. |
Optional Services | Paid services offered by TLScontact such as courier return of documents, premium lounge access, and SMS alerts. These services do not affect the outcome or speed of visa processing. |
UK GDPR | The UK General Data Protection Regulation, which governs how personal data must be processed and protected within the United Kingdom. |
Section L: Links and Additional Resources
Resource | Description | Link |
GOV.UK Visa Application Portal | Official UK government site to apply for a visa, complete the application form, and pay the visa fee. | https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk |
GOV.UK Account Login | Access your UKVI or GOV.UK account for saved visa applications and updates. | https://www.gov.uk/log-in-register-hmrc-online-services |
TLScontact Homepage | Access the TLScontact portal and select your country to manage your visa appointment and documents. | https://www.tlscontact.com/ |
UKVI Contact Page | Contact UK Visas and Immigration inside or outside the UK for questions about your visa application. | https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk |
View and Prove Immigration Status | Check your UK immigration status and share your eVisa details with third parties. | https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status |
UKVCAS (in-country only) | For applicants applying from inside the UK to book biometrics and upload documents. | https://www.ukvcas.co.uk/ |
Author
Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.
She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.
Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals
- Anne Morrishttps://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/
- Anne Morrishttps://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/
- Anne Morrishttps://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/
- Anne Morrishttps://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/