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Basking on the beach or trekking in the mountains? Whatever is in store for you this summer, visa application is a of the anxiety sometimes associated with the application process.
Remember to #ApplyinAdvance and ease your visa application experience. Here are some smart tips to enhance your visa application experience and make it more convenient and hassle-free.
Be the early bird: When planning your travels, always book flights and hotels in advance. Do the same for visas. Most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days before your date of travel. So don't wait until the last minute.
Check the turnaround times for processing: Each country has a different timeline for its visa processing, and these timelines are clearly mentioned on the country-specific websites (accessed via www.vfsglobal.com), providing you with the information required to apply for your visa well in advance. Be aware that during peak season visa processing can take longer than anticipated.
Stay updated about visa status: Once your application is submitted, you can track its progress through VFS Global's online tracking service. 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.
For a stress-free experience, you can opt for the Assured Courier service to cover any loss or damage and receive guaranteed reimbursement* if your application is lost or damaged while in transit. This service is available at select Visa Application Centres.
Book your appointment in advance: Some countries require applicants to schedule an appointment with the Visa Application Centre to submit an application. Once scheduled, we highly recommend being at the centre 15 minutes prior to the appointed time to avoid missing your slot.
If you need to travel urgently or 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. Many Visa Application Centres have extended operating hours during the peak season to allow you to visit before work and after work.
Once at the Visa Application Centre, the exclusive opening hours allow you to beat the queues and process your visa application with ease. Please check with the Visa Application Centre if this service is suitable for your visa application. Beware of touts and entities who offer to provide appointment slots at an additional cost. You can visit our website www.vfsglobal.com for more information.
Making a list, checking it twice: 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 to submit along with the duly filled application form. Check your passport's validity. Many countries require a valid passport six months beyond your return date.
Bonus tip! Optional services: In today's fast-paced world, where almost everything you seek is at your convenience and comfort, why should applying for a visa be any different? VFS Global has the perfect solution for all its customers with its host of innovative and pioneering optional Value-Added Services. From applying for a visa at a location of choice with the Visa At Your Doorstep service to enjoying personalised assistance while submitting applications in the comforts of a luxurious lounge with the Premium Lounge service or even Walk-In Without an Appointment or avail Form Filling support; a seamless experience awaits you at our centres with theses optional Value-Added services provided that is customised as per the individual's visa requirement.
Please note that these services are optional in nature and customers are not compelled to subscribe to them. We recommend you read the Disclaimer section as well before opting for these services. So, what are you waiting for?
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 if they are offered for a specific embassy/consulate, or to book any of the above value-added services, visit the country-specific website via www.vfsglobal.com.
*Availing any of the above-mentioned optional value-added services does not affect the processing time or decision of your visa. These remain the sole prerogative of the Embassy/Mission/Consulate. The services are charged in addition to the visa application fee.
*Locations where the Visa At Your Doorstep service is offered may vary, depending on the city or country where the service is offered. Please check with the VFS Global representative in your city or country for details.
If you are facing issues with your visa application process, we are happy to help. Please drop us an email at customercare@vfsglobal.com and we will assist at the earliest.
If you have any feedback on this article or would like to reach out to our team to know more, please email us at
communications@vfsglobal.com
