This change will affect applicants in Uzbekistan from 6 April 2012. Applicants in Uzbekistan already apply for their UK visas online. From 6 April 2012, payment will only be possible online in US Dollars, using either a MasterCard or Visa card. The move to online payments is not limited to Uzbekistan. The UK Border Agency is making these changes across its global network.

The move to online application and payments will deliver a much more streamlined application process and is consistent with a wider global trend to online transactions and payments. It will also be a much safer system for both customers and staff as it reduces the risk associated with handling large amounts of cash during the visa application process.

During the initial stages of these changes it will only be possible to pay in one designated currency from an approved list (US Dollars in Uzbekistan). However it is intended that once the changes are complete, applicants will be able to select a currency of their choice from the approved list.

Limiting the number of approved currencies will allow the transfer of funds across borders and minimise banking costs. Allowing payments in other currencies would substantially increase costs and result in increased fees for all visa customers.