Applications for UK visas through the points based system will now need to be started online, it has been confirmed.
The Home Office issued a statement explaining that applicants for UK visas and work permits, along with their dependants, will be required to make their applications and appointments at the online UK visa application centre before attending their appointment in person.
Confirmation was given that the UK Border Agency (UKBA) will no longer accept manually completed applications under the points based system from December 12th of this year.
It added: "Online applications and appointments will be mandated for applications under Tiers 1, 2, 4 and 5 of the points based system. Customers are able, but not required, to make visitor visa applications online."
It is thought that the changes will save processing time for applicants and staff, but it could also help with security.
Further steps were taken to move the UK visa system online this month as the UKBA announced that employers in Britain will soon have access to an online checker. This is designed to enable them to research the immigration history of any candidates from outside of the European Economic Area.