They are correct. Itīs not possible to convert a JAA ATPL-VFR into a JAA ATPL-A. But you have the following option; you could obtain an IR-H. This would give you a JAA ATPL-H. A conversion is now, according to Lasors 2010, section 1.9, part 1, possible. You have to take the following papers on ATP level : Performance, Operational Procedures, Principles of Flight and the ATPL-A bridge paper