World news story

British Embassy Moscow statement regarding visa service in Russia

British Embassy Moscow issued a statement in response to allegations by the Russian Embassy in London about the treatment of Russian citizens seeking to enter the UK.

In response to allegations by the Russian Embassy in London about the treatment of Russian citizens seeking to enter the UK, the British Embassy would like to assure Russian citizens that there has been no change in our immigration rules and procedures. UK border officers are required to verify that all passengers from any country are entitled to enter the UK. It is not true to say that these checks are directed at Russian visitors or any other nationality.

The UK remains committed to providing a quality visa service to Russian visitors in line with global service standards to all visitors to the UK who require visas. This service includes processing standard visa applications in 15 working days and qualifying priority visa applications within 5 working days.

In the year 01 April 2014 to 31 March 2015 97% of nearly 110,000 visa applicants from Russia were successful. Of nearly 25,000 applicants who responded to our survey, 77% were very satisfied or satisfied with our service. We have also made a number of improvements to our service, offering priority and premium visa services.

Please read more information on visa services here and here.

Published 6 August 2015