Diplomatic Visa Application Procedures in London
Embassy London accepts for processing the visa applications of all diplomatic, official or special passport holders accredited by their government to their missions in the United Kingdom and those of their immediate family.
Diplomatic missions who wish to submit visa applications on behalf of their diplomatic personnel and other government officials and their immediate families by messenger to the Embassy’s Diplomatic Visa Section may do so. In such cases the messenger will require an appointment.
The Embassy also accepts for processing the visa applications of domestic employees of all diplomatic passport holders accredited to their missions in the United Kingdom. Applicants are required to appear in person with an interview with a consular officer.
Scheduling the Appointment
An appointment may be scheduled by e-mailing LondonDips@state.gov with the full names, exactly as stated in their passport, of the person/s who will be attending the Embassy and requested date of the appointment.
The e-mail must be sent at least 24 hours before the intended date of attendance. Only those listed in the email will be allowed entry into the Embassy.
Hours of Operation
The Diplomatic Visa Section is open Monday through Friday between 12.00 p.m. and 12.30 p.m. except for American and British public holidays.
Visa processing is normally 72 hours.
Traveling on behalf of the U.K. government
If you are traveling to the United States on behalf of the U.K. government you should have your department submit your application through the Home Office, Official Visa Department, U.K. Passport Services, Globe House, 89 Eccleston Square, London SW1V 1PN; phone number 0207-901-7542 or 0207-901-2334 (the line is open between 11:00 and 15:00 only).
Applicants who are applying for visas to serve at the U.K. Embassy or Consulates in the United States, should apply for visas through the Foreign and Commonwealth office.
Members of the military should apply through the Defence Passenger Reservations Centre, Visa Section, 5th Floor, St Georges Court, London WC1A 2SH.
