Summer beckons: A quick visa guide by VFS Global

The world is on the move again after nearly two years of lockdown and travel restrictions. With many countries opening their borders and easing travel restrictions, many travellers across the globe are planning international trips.

VFS Global, the world’s largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions worldwide, has put together a quick visa guide for travellers planning Eid Al Adha and summer holidays.

What is VFS Global’s role in the visa process?
We manage non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport and consular, identity and citizen services for governments who form part of our client portfolio. This allows diplomatic missions (like 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.

How do the key visa application trends look like?
With international borders opening up and Covid restrictions reducing, we have seen a good demand from travellers. The number of visa applications have risen significantly after Q1 2022 and in Q2 and Q3, we expect around 85 per cent of pre-pandemic counts to return. The demand for our optional Premium service, Visa at your doorstep have also doubled since pre-pandemic times due to the increased convenience it brings to the applicant.

If I am travelling to the UK with stopover in EU member states, do I need a Schengen airport transit visa? 
Yes, Schengen airport transit visa is mandatory for travellers with a stopover. This requirement has been in place for many years.

How much ahead of travel should I apply for my visa?
When planning your travel, you always book flights and hotels in advance. Do the same for visas. Most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days (3 months) before your 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. Particularly this year with higher demand and limited appointment slots available, we urge applicants to apply for their visa as early as possible.

Read: VFS announces new timings for application centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

What are the typical turnaround timelines for visa processing?
Each country has a different timeline for its visa processing, and these timelines are mentioned on VFS Global websites, providing you the information required to apply for your visa well in advance. Be aware that during peak season visa processing can take longer than anticipated, hence apply early. Each application is unique and thus the processing time may differ for each case.

What is the appointment allotment process at VFS Global?
Appointment slots are offered online based on volume of demand or forecast, and in conjunction with the embassy’s own internal capacity planning. Once scheduled, we highly recommend being at the centre 15 minutes prior the appointed time to avoid missing your slot. Appointments are free, hence be aware of fraudulent parties selling appointments in exchange of money. We urge applicants not to pay for any appointments being offered.

Which are the correct documents to submit?
A checklist of the documentation required for visa applications for each country served by VFS Global is available on our website. Be sure to carry all the requisite documentation, including a printout of the checklist, to submit along with the duly filled application form.

Check the validity of your passport and Emirates ID. Many countries require a valid passport six months beyond your return date.

How do I track the status of my application?
Once your application is submitted, you can track the progress of your application online through VFS Global website. Additionally, you can opt for the SMS service, and receive timely updates on your mobile phone.

The status will be updated as and when your passport is ready for collection/delivery. Be aware that VFS Global cannot track your application during the assessment process within an embassy or consulate.

Can VFS Global guide me on visa categories and vaccination?
VFS Global is strictly not authorised to provide advice or guidance on visa category or any other visa requirement that the customer may need. VFS Global manages the administrative and non-judgmental aspects of the visa process only, such as visa application submission and biometric enrollment. VFS Global does not comment on vaccine requirements. All travellers are requested to check the destination/transit country guidelines for the same.

Can I expedite the process? Does availing any of the value-added services guarantee a faster visa outcome?
The time taken for visa processing differs with each mission. Please check the turnaround timelines before applying. 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 more positive decision by the concerned embassy/consulate.

Optional and value-added services are available for select client governments only, as per agreed service level agreements with those governments.