A visa application is an important aspect of this planning, but it doesn’t have to be as stressful as some imagine if you plan well. Keep in mind these handy tips for a smart, stress-free and on-time visa application experience!
Did you know that most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days before the date of travel? Just like you apply in advance to watch the latest movie at cinemas, why wait till the last minute when you can apply early?
It’s peak season and a common concern is wondering how long visa processing will take, especially when your travel dates are nearing. While VFS Global ensures that your official documents are passed on to the concerned consulate/embassy within 24 hours of submission, it is important to know that each country has a different timeline for its visa processing. During peak season, visa processing at Embassy/ Consulate can take longer than the turnaround times mentioned. These timelines are clearly mentioned on the country-specific websites (accessed via www.vfsglobal.com). Apply accordingly and save yourself from the anxiety.
A checklist of the documentation required for visa applications for each country served by VFS Global is available on www.vfsglobal.com. Refer to this and be sure to carry all the requisite documentation to submit along with the duly filled application form. Also, check your passport’s validity. Many countries require a valid passport six months beyond your return date.
From applying for a visa from your location of choice (the Visa At Your Doorstep service) to enjoying personalised assistance while submitting applications (in the Premium Lounge), or walk-in services for those without appointments or form-filling support – optional services, available at an extra fee, can be provided customised to your visa requirement.
We highly recommend you to reach at least 15 minutes prior to the appointed time to avoid missing your slot. For any urgent travel or if you have missed your pre-booked appointment, or simply cannot book an appointment at your preferred date and time, Prime Time Appointment* service allows you to book an appointment outside the normal working hours in select centres.
Once your application is submitted, you can track the progress through VFS Global’s online tracking service. The status will be updated as and when your passport is ready for collection/delivery. Please note once your application reaches the Embassy, VFS Global has no influence on its progress and cannot track the status at this stage.
As every journey begins with VFS Global, here are a few travel-related tips that could be helpful while preparing for your trip:
When researching your preferred destination, it is important to read up on travel advisories on respective country websites. You will find useful information on what to do in the event of an emergency. Supposedly if you need to be evacuated from the country While risks can be in the form of natural disasters or political unrest, always ensure you follow general safety precautions as well as be mindful of the local cultural sensitivities.
It is advisable to keep local currency handy for all emergency purposes during your trip. This will also take the stress out of your local market visits where card transactions are not possible. And before you swipe your debit and credit cards, familiarise yourself with your bank’s service charge and mark-up amount on the conversion rate. You can avoid higher currency rates at airports by getting your currency changed from a local bank or authentic moneychanger.
Before embarking on your trip, save all your important phone numbers. Call your network provider to set up roaming to ensure you can communicate if you are out of a Wi-Fi network. Update your banking apps, download translation apps and find out about e-hailing services in your destination country so you can download the app in advance.
Health requirements are not to be taken lightly as you don’t want to be turned away at immigration because you’ve flouted a country’s travel health code. To enter certain countries, travellers may need vaccinations or medical requirements for entry. Constantly changing travel requirements may seem cumbersome, but proper research on your destination is never a waste! So what are you waiting for?
*Please note that services mentioned above are optional and available for an extra fee. Customers are not compelled to subscribe to them. These services do not affect the processing time or decision of your visa, which remains the sole prerogative of the Embassy/ Consulate.
*Some of the above-mentioned services may not be offered in some countries, or for specific missions/embassies/consulates. To check if any of the above services are available in your country, or to book them, visit the country-specific website via vfsglobal.com.