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A beach vacation or a mountain getaway, the excitement of going on a holiday is often marred by the stress of last-minute planning amidst the rush of the peak travel season. While an upcoming trip out of the country can be a 'mixed bag' of emotions, something like a visa application which is an important aspect of this planning 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!
Just like you apply in advance to watchy the latest blockbuster movie at the cinemas (PS: Avengers Endgame is the greatest film ever!), you can do the same with your visa application as well. Did you know that most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days before the date of travel? So why wait till the last minute when you can apply as early as possible keeping in mind the avrage processing times and the intended date of travel. This will ensure that relaxation is the only thing on your mind when you submit your applications on time.
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 Embassy/ Consulate 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 the 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 at 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.
We highly recommend you arrive 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.
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.
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. 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 the 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.
If you are facing issues with your visa application, we are happy to help you. Please drop us an email at customercare@vfsglobal.com and we will address the issue as soon as possible.
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
