Students can apply for UK visas here |15 July 2011

They will not need to travel to Mauritius to do that as is normally the case.

The BHC said it is working in partnership with the British High Commission in Mauritius to make applying easier for students who wish to start their studies in the UK in September.

“Visa applicants will still need to send their application to the High Commission in Mauritius (BHC Mauritius) for processing, as this service is no longer offered in Seychelles, however, the applicants’ biometric data will be taken, by appointment, by the BHC so that applicants shouldn’t have to travel to Mauritius”, said the local high commission in a press release.

It said individuals intending to apply for a visa should ensure they have all the relevant documents for their application, including their passport, and payment must be made before the application is sent.

“Applicants can call or visit BHC Victoria to obtain the necessary bank details and information on visa fees or email bhcvictoria@fco.gov.uk.

It said after paying they must take their payment slip to the BHC Victoria to get a verification receipt that needs to be sent with their visa application.

“Original documents – which will be returned on completion of the application – should be enclosed in an envelope and copies attached to the application form.

“Applicants should check that all necessary documents, including their passport, are included with the application form before sending to Mauritius via DHL, making sure that the postage fee paid is enough to include the return of their passport and original documents.”
Vice Consul, Amy Bowers said:

“I am happy that The British High Commission in Victoria in partnership with the British High Commission in Port Louis will be helping students in Seychelles who wish to apply for a student visa, by offering to take their biometric data as part of the advertised visa clinic.

This service will make things far more convenient, as it means that they won’t have to travel to Mauritius.”