VFS Global Biometrics for UKVI for Skilled Worker Visa Experience 2023 - What to do and what to expect

VFS Global Biometrics for UKVI for Skilled Worker Visa Experience 2023 - What to do and what to expect

I was looking and researching for the preparation of the documents needed for the UKVI application as it was not clear whether you'll just bring the original supporting documents despite the size (there is a reminder that you can photocopy it into A4 size if it is smaller or bigger. My confusion lies in the word CAN, so is it optional?)  I was a bit disappointed with the affiliated agency here because I feel that I was not well supported and left hanging with regards to the visa application.

Anyway, let me share my experience so you'll have an idea what I did. I think if the job you got was course through the local agency meaning you've applied for a job via local agency), they would be more hands on based on the YouTube videos of PHRNs to UKRNS and vlogs of nurses like Nurse Even. I was offered a job through a UK agency and they referred me to their partner agency here in the Philippines for the OEC Certificate, so I'm assuming that's why I felt like I'm on my own.

Anyway, at this point in time you might have finished paying (my employer paid for this) the visa and had received an email that it is already paid and you can log in again in your UKVI account to set up an appointment for the biometrics.

Upon logging in, you should download the two forms:

• UK Application Form (the link after the third green tab)
• Documents checklist (first green tab)

Then in clicking the third green tab, I set an appointment for the biometrics in Makati since I'm here in Metro Manila. I chose the afternoon session and the time which was the safest for me because the morning slots where early for me (8 am) for I have to consider the traffic and the whatnots (I don't want to be filled with anxiety on the day).

After you have paid the biometrics appointment for VFS, you will receive an email and appointment confirmation form which you have to print out too. Prepare the UK Application Form, Documents Checklist, Passport and supporting documents. I availed the Document Assistance Scanning and the Courier as per process of the local agency. You'll pay 1904 pesos. Courier is standard only.

Next, do not make the mistake that I did. Print all forms into A4 size outright. Have a clear photocopy/copy of all supporting documents in A4 size, you can have it in black, but it is preferable to have it coloured (the ones that I need to print are colored like the certificate of sponsorship, offer letter). Make 1 copy and put it in a folder.

It is also good that you need to be there at least 30 minutes. It was a good decision that prior to going there, I ate out in Alphaland Southgate Mall. The jeepney ride would entail a 5-10 minutes ride at 13 pesos. I made it there at least 30 minutes and I saw a poster that loitering there is prohibited. I was approached by a security and ask for my purpose. I said that I'm for UK Visa application and he said that they are still letting the people with a 1:30 pm appointment. So I went near the last of the line and found out that there are kioks available like Turks, Master Siomai, Potato Corner, a 7 eleven store and Cafe within the building. VFS is at the 2nd floor.

After slurping a pick up coffee latte, I noticed that there were 3 missed calls and a text from UK visa asking me where I am. I sent back a SMS message that I was already at the place at the back of the line. She messaged me to go upstairs already and called me again as it was already late (mind you it was only 11 mins and my actually appointment time is 19 minutes later). The tone of the caller was a bit off but hey I let it go as long as I finish it through.

Upon taking the escalator, there is an entrance and the lady guard ask me about the appointment and was reluctant to let me in as they are not letting anyone in for the mean time. I told her that somebody from ukvi had called me to go in already. I showed her the text I got and after a while, she checked my bags.

After the bag check area, you'll see a reception area with the countries indicated. Line up and when it was my turn, the receptionist gave me some forms to fill up and then pointed me to the first door on my left. You'll submit it to the personnel on the right side upon entering the entrance. When you avail the document scanning, she'll be the one to sort out

God really moves!

 God really moves!

Keep the faith and remember that life is what you make it. There are things you can't control certainly but you can adjust how to see it.

My God is bigger than my faith

My God is bigger than my faith

I don't know if the universe is just testing me, and the news I got from the agency that slots for deployment are full this year. Placements are based on the demands of the hospitals which they are still waiting for a confirmation. Apparently, after the interview and the offer they made, from what I deduced, a hospital will have to choose you for you to have the final offer. I thought that when you are able to ace the interview you are set to go.

But I am taking this as an opportunity to prepare. I believe that there is always a reason for a delay and He is preparing for what I need. I may be a bit anxious today because of financial constraints, but my God is bigger than my faith. I remember that when it feels and gets hard, that's the time that you have to persevere and pursue because it just means that you are nearing your goal.

TB IOM Test

 

Set an appointment through email

They will email you back for the form that you will need to fill out and send it to them.

They will send you a confirmation email stating your appointment. You have to confirm the message.

You have to print out the two sheets (one copy each) attached in the email - the checklist and the pregnancy declaration form prior to going to the appointment. Do not forget to photocopy your valid passport. Also bring your original passport and another valid identification card.

IOM is located in the 15th floor of the Trafalgar building. From a commuter standpoint, it is nearest the Pacific Star building which is in the intersection between the Gil Puyat/Buendia and Makati Avenue. Drop off in the Pacific Star building and then walk along Makati Avenue which will be going to Ayala Triangle. Turn right when you have reached the second street. Go along until such time that you see a pedestrian. The Trafalgar building is just across a Starbucks coffee shop.

On the entrance of the building, the receptionist will ask for a valid ID and will ask you to log in and then will give you a visitors pass. You then go to the 15th floor and then the guard will ask for your name to which they will check your appointment among the list. They will give you a queue number and direct you to follow the people who are for picture taking. They will also give you a clip board based on the country you tend to apply to. By the way, there are people who apply for UK, Canada, Australia, US.

On the appointment date, I think that they do not follow the appointment time though the guards and employees asked what is your appointment time. They cater on a first come first serve basis. I heard people whose appointment is 10 am and 1 pm. Mind you, I went there 20 minutes prior my appointment and I'm scheduled at 7:45 am. So better get there early. 

After the picture taking, I was asked to go now to the UK reception area and wait for my queue number to be called. Upon call, submit the requirements along with the passport. They will ask and clarify for the details then will instruct you to directly make a payment in the cashier.

You should have an exact amount of 3600 pesos as stated in their notice. They will issue an official receipt. Make sure to check if the details are correct in the receipt. Then go back to the UK reception waiting area and wait for your queue number to be called by the doctor. The queue number will show in the TV screen and what room you'll go into.

When my queue number was called, I went into room 1 and the doctor introduced himself and asked some medical history questions and exposure. He also explained that after the X-ray if there will be no problem the officers will issue a certificate. If there is, he will call me again in the room. I may now proceed with the Xray which is near the cashier.

When my Queue number was called in the Xray room, I was asked to put on a gown and remove top clothes, jewelries and undergarment. The Xray was fast and then went back again in the UK reception waiting  area for the result.

I was really nervous when I hear the officer calling way past my Queue number. It got me thinking if my Chest X-ray has a problem. I sighed a huge relief and was able to calm down when I heard a number before me so I thought calling for results is not by order. It took more than 30 minutes. The officer will let you sign in the list and present the certificate where you have to check if it matches in the passport. If there is no problem, sign the certificate and give it back to the officer so that they'll let the doctor sign it and then put the seals and stamps. The officer will call you and make a final instruction and when you're done, you're good to go!

I went there at 7:30 am and was able to  finish at 9:55 am.