UK envoy says skaters got visas, but too late

PanARMENIAN.Net - The United Kingdom’s Ambassador to Armenia, Alexandra Cole, addressed the issue surrounding Armenian figure skaters missing the European Championship due to visa delays. She confirmed that the visas have now been granted, but acknowledged this is “little consolation.” Her statement was published on the official Facebook page of the British Embassy in Armenia.

She urged all travelers to apply for UK visas as early as possible.

“I was saddened to learn that Armenian figure skaters couldn’t take part in the European Championship held in Sheffield. I can only imagine how disappointing that must have been for the athletes. I first learned about the issue through social media—only after the athletes had already been forced to cancel their travel plans,” she said.

Following that, the embassy contacted both the Figure Skating Federation and UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to understand what had happened. “UKVI informed me that the visas have now been issued, but I understand that this is of little comfort given the missed competition,” Cole noted.

She added that while the British Embassy in Yerevan is not involved in the visa application process or decision-making, in special cases they are ready to assist by providing guidance on the process.

According to the ambassador, standard visa processing takes at least 15 working days, but during peak periods or holidays, it may take longer.

“For time-sensitive travel, such as for competitions or events,I encourage people to apply well in advance. With the upcoming launch of new direct flights between Yerevan and London, I hope more people from Armenia will visit the UK for tourism, family visits, or business. The UK has a high visa approval rate and warmly welcomes Armenian visitors,” she concluded.

Earlier, the Armenian Figure Skating Federation announced that the national team skaters would be unable to compete in the European Championship in the UK due to not receiving their entry visas in time. Armenia’s Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports stated that the federation had not reached out for assistance.