This new system is making it harder for Cameroon nationals to obtain a UK visa. Why have you taken this step?

We have to operate in the most effective manner possible to ensure that we provide value for money.  The costs of operating in Cameroon are significant.  By moving the work we are able to ensure the continued provision of a visa service to Cameroonians.

Has this been done anywhere else regionally and worldwide?

Yes.  We’ve done this across Southern Africa, Central America, and are about to provide similar services in some European countries.

I cannot manage without my passport for a week.

We appreciate that this will inconvenience some customers.  It is important to plan your travel well in advance.  For regular travellers you should consider applying for a long-term visa that will ensure you do not have to make regular applications for new visas.    

I need to travel urgently to the UK. How can I have my application dealt with quicker?

If you are applying for a visit visa then you can apply at any British mission offering a full visa service.  This does not however mean that you will receive a quicker service.  The British High Commission in Yaounde will not however be able to issue you with a visa.

Why have you chosen Ghana rather than somewhere like Nigeria?

Our staff in Accra are already experienced in dealing with applications from countries where French is spoken.  We want to make use of this ability.  Furthermore we have spare capacity in Ghana in order to take on this work – this is not the case in Nigeria.  

Do I have the option of applying elsewhere?

Yes, if it is for a visit visa. However, there is no guarantee your application will be dealt with quicker.

What do staff in Ghana understand about Cameroon?

All visas are considered under the UK Immigration Rules and UK staff will be making decisions. If staff have questions about the supporting documents, they can contact support staff in Yaounde.

If I want to appeal against a decision to refuse me an UK visa, where do I send the papers?

Any appeal will ultimately be dealt with in Accra as well. You can either send it directly to the High Commission in Accra or deliver it to the High Commission in Yaounde for onward transmission. If your application was originally refused in Yaounde prior to the move of work to Accra then you should submit your appeal in Yaounde.

Where can I get more information?

Our website, http://ukincameroon.fco.gov.uk

I am applying from Chad / CAR / Gabon and will have to travel to Yaounde, incur hotel expenses and surrender my passport in order to apply.  Are there any other alternatives especially if I am applying for settlement?

No, the only way to apply for a settlement visa for the UK is via this process.  If you need to travel while your application is considered then we will make arrangements for your passport to be returned to you.

Will I need to be interviewed if I'm applying as a student or for settlement?

If you are then we will contact you.  All interviews will continue to take place in Yaounde though it may be via telephone.

I don't have access to the internet, can someone else complete the form on my behalf?

Anyone can fill the form in for you but you will need to sign it to confirm that the information is correct.

Where can I send queries about my application?

You will need to email our offices in Accra

When can I apply?

Applicants are encouraged to allow plenty of time to process their paperwork.  You can apply up to three months before the date of travel.

What currency can I pay the visa fee in?

Only CFA is accepted.  Payment can only be made in cash.

Do children need to come to the visa section to submit an application?

Yes.  All children wishing to submit visa applications must come in person.  However a parent/legal guardian should accompany them.

If my application is refused and I want to re-apply how soon can I submit another application?

There is no time restriction for submitting visa applications.  You should consider whether there has been any material change in your circumstances before making another application.

What is the complaint procedure?

The visa section at the British High Commission is committed to providing a high standard of service to all our customers. If you are dissatisfied with the service we have provided you should write to:

Entry Clearance Manager,
British High Commission
PO BOX 547
Yaounde
Cameroon.

We will no longer be able to comment on refusal notices.