Sustainability at VFS Global

At VFS Global, we continue to build an organisation that is future-ready and cares for people, society, and the environment. We firmly believe that our long-term growth and success depends on our ability to earn the trust of our customers, colleagues, regulators, business partners, investors, and local communities.

Our sustainability strategy, integrated into our business strategy, is built on the foundation of creating value for all our stakeholders and the environment. The strategy is guided by the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) principles and framework aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations. Click here to read our latest Integrated Sustainability Report.

VFS Global Integrated Sustainability Report 2023 for the period 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2023 is externally assured (limited level of assurance) by an independent assurance provider. The assurance statement can be downloaded by clicking here.



Sustainability Pillars & SDGs

  1. We are committed to creating long-term value for our shareholders while operating responsibly and sustainably. Through seamless customer experiences, strategic partnerships, and responsible procurement, we strive to achieve economic, social, and environmental excellence.

  2. Objectives:

    • Gain strategic advantage, preference, and recognition as the impact-maximising partner of choice, and as a performance leader on ESG.
    • Capture positive impact assessment and the overall contribution of VFS Global to society and the UN SDGs.
    • Provide long-term shareholder value.
    • Establish first-class customer satisfaction and experience (Client Governments and applicants), health, safety, and fair practices.
    • Promote inclusion and accessibility, focus on sustainable products and customer messaging.
    • Sourcing responsibly.

  3. SDG alignment: SDG 8, 9, 12, 16

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  1. Our approach to corporate governance extends beyond mere compliance with laws and regulations of the countries in which we operate. We critically analyse our practices to consistently achieve the highest standards of governance and professional conduct that contribute towards the long-term sustainability of the company.

  2. Objectives:

    • Maintain best industry practices in corporate governance and oversight.
    • Constantly enhance the business code of conduct and compliance policies, as well as ensure data privacy and information security.
    • Maintain transparency in all interactions with our stakeholders and ensure systematic reporting.
    • Develop robust risk assessments, risk mitigation plans, business continuity, and foster sound risk-based decision-making as critical components of the operational framework.

    SDG alignment: SDG 8, 10, 16

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  1. VFS Global champions diversity and inclusion, creating a safe and vibrant workplace where every voice is heard and valued. We engage our employees deeply, nurturing a collaborative, inclusive environment that fuels innovation, employee satisfaction, and a collective commitment to excellence in the services that we provide to our Client Governments and applicants.

  2. Objectives:

    • Enhance capacity building and employee development.
    • Promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
    • Integrate cultural change and emphasise women empowerment.
    • Encourage talent attraction and retention.
    • Contribute to the health, safety, and well-being of colleagues.

    SDG alignment: SDG 3, 5, 8

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  1. VFS Global is dedicated to reducing its environmental footprint and supporting initiatives that enhance the natural environment in its areas of operation. We actively support and promote efforts to mitigate climate change, incorporating environmentally friendly tools and engaging in responsible initiatives to further our sustainability goals.

  2. Objectives:

    • Improve our environmental performance, minimise environmental impact and support climate change mitigation efforts.
    • Enhance our green procurement processes and policies.

    SDG alignment: SDG 7,12,13,15

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  1. We remain committed to supporting the communities where we operate. We collaborate with reputable organisations to support programmes aimed at promoting education, caring with empathy, and protecting the environment. We also encourage our colleagues to contribute their time and skills via initiatives held under our Corporate Volunteering Programme.

  2. Objectives:

    • Enhance the effectiveness of our investment in communities
    • Support employee volunteering.
    • Promote education, empower young people, nurture empathy and protect the environment through various programmes

    SDG alignment: SDG 1,4,5,10,13

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