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<p>UK Visa and Citizenship Application Service (UK VCAS) centres are run by Sopra
Steria Ltd (SSL) on behalf of UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI). <br>Sopra Steria,
undertook market research to identify initial service locations; their research included
the impact on customer travel time, cost and accessibility. There are currently six
core sites across the UK at which application submission services are offered free
of charge and beyond that, SSL offer a range of enhanced services in a further 50
locations. These services enable customers to submit their biometric information (photo
and fingerprints) and supporting evidence in one location. 62% of customers will,
on average, have to travel less than 25 miles to visit a core service centre, with
78% travelling less than 50 miles. Appointments may be offered for individual customers
and/or family groups to enrol their biometrics together.</p><p>SSL continue to assess
customer demand, working closely with UKVI, and are planning to open a further 6 enhanced
service locations throughout May and June, one of which will be offered in Edinburgh.</p><p>SSL
are required to provide locations that comply with the Equality Act 2010 (including
full compliance with the disability discrimination provisions) and biometric capture
solutions are suitable for different customer groups, including customers with disabilities.</p><p>For
customers who are eligible to apply using the Service and Support Centres (SSCs),
it is estimated that 62% of customers will be within 30 miles of their nearest service
centre and customers who meet certain criteria, which may include people of limited
means; will be able to apply for travel assistance.</p><p> </p>
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