TravTalk Middle East Online Magazine
Still heading away on an amazing adventure this spring? Although preparing for a holiday is not without its challenges, VFS Global
wants to make sure you get to your destination smoothly without much stress. Vinay Malhotra, Regional Group COO – South Asia,
MENA, Americas at VFS Global, explains how to beat the rush this travel season with simplification of visa application process.
How early before travel dates should a traveller apply for visa?
Expatriate residents in the UAE are advised to plan their travel itinerary and visa application as early as three months prior to the planned departure date to avoid delays in processing entry permits during the peak travel season. Most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days before the date of travel. According to the revised Schengen Visa Code, effective February 2, 2020, you can apply for a Schengen visa up to 6 months before your date of travel.
What is the typical turnaround timeline for visas?
Each country has a different timeline for its visa processing, and these timelines are clearly mentioned on their websites, providing you the information required to apply for your visa well in advance. In general, it can last 15 working days. During peak season visa processing can take longer than anticipated, hence apply early. It is important to know that
during peak season the appointment slots can be easily fully booked soon due to high demand. That’s why we encourage customers, to apply for their visas as early as possible.
Tell us more about your value-added services. How they help travellers
to beat the peak?
VFS Global make the visa application process more convenient, exclusive, personalised, time saving and hassle-free. The personalised attention and step-bystep assistance make the Premium Lounge suitable for first time travellers and senior citizens.
The ‘Visa at Your Doorstep’ technology-enabled service brings the visa application process to remote locations (home or office) giving the luxury of an easy application process.
Students, working professionals and other individuals who may not be able to visit the visa application centre during regular working hours can immensely
benefit from the prime time service – which allows individuals to apply for their visas, outside of regular work hours, without interrupting their schedules.
Does availing any of the value-added services guarantee a faster visa outcome?
Opting for any optional, value-added services (such as prime time services or form-filling, or any other service) does not guarantee a quicker or a positive decision by the concerned embassy/consulate. Customers can choose to expedite the process by availing services like priority and super priority visa, available for only UK visa customers.
What is VFS Global’s role in the visa process?
VFS Global manage nonjudgmental and administrative tasks related to visa application. This allows diplomatic missions (i.e. embassies/consulates) to effectively manage their time and resources and focus on the critical task of assessing visa applications and making decisions on whether to grant a
visa or not.
