TravTalk India Online Magazine
VFS Global is transforming the visa application landscape with its focus on technology and collaboration. Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer for South Asia, VFS Global, shares insights on rising outbound travel demand, digital innovations, and how the company is working with agents to streamline the visa process for Indian travellers.
TT Bureau
India has experienced a significant surge in visa applications as outbound travel demand continues to rise. At the heart of this process are travel agents, who play a vital role in guiding their clients through visa applications. Highlighting their strong collaboration with the travel agent community, Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer for South Asia, VFS Global, says, “We have partnered with industry bodies like TAAI, TAFI, and ETAA to keep agents informed about the latest visa requirements. Earlier this year, we conducted a 12-city roadshow to engage with over 1,200 travel agents, addressing their concerns and updating them on our services.”
To further equip agents for managing visa applications, VFS Global provides regular updates and insights via email. “We continuously share the latest visa information from the 52 client governments we work with, allowing agents to offer accurate advice to their clients,” Talwar explains. She also advises agents to encourage their clients to apply well in advance, considering different processing timelines across embassies.
VFS Global values the feedback it receives from travel agents and maintains open communication to ensure the visa process remains seamless. “We engage with agents at the local level, addressing region-specific challenges and tailoring solutions,” says Talwar, adding that, “By working closely with agents, VFS Global ensures that operational issues are quickly and effectively resolved.”
India’s growing outbound travel demand is also reflected in the surge in visa applications. “We processed more applications between January and June 2024 than in pre-pandemic 2019, surpassing volumes by 2 per cent. Additionally, there was an 11 percent year-on-year growth compared to 2023,” Talwar reveals. Popular destinations include Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, the USA, and the UK.
The demand for the Visa At Your Doorstep (VAYD) service has also increased dramatically, with bookings in India growing five-fold compared to 2019. “This reflects the convenience travellers seek,” says Talwar, adding that, “We offer VAYD for 16 countries, ensuring seamless and flexible options for visa submission.”
VFS Global is continually enhancing efficiency and customer experience by integrating technology into the visa process.
“Our approach involves digitising key steps, such as our Appointment Management System, where applicants can upload documents for pre-verification, reducing their time at visa centres,” Talwar explains.
To further secure the process, VFS Global uses facial recognition technology to curb appointment misuse and prevent fraudulent bookings. “By preventing misuse of appointment slots and verifying applicants through real-time photo capture, we ensure the process is secure and efficient,” Talwar says.
Visa rejections remain a concern for many travellers. While VFS Global handles the administrative side of visa applications, Talwar emphasises, “We do not make visa decisions—that is the role of embassies and consulates. However, we guide applicants to ensure their documentation is complete.” She urges applicants to carefully review checklists provided by client governments to avoid delays or rejections.
Looking ahead, Talwar acknowledges the growing prominence of e-visas and digital visa solutions. “VFS Global has been at the forefront of the digital shift, and we are excited about the possibilities ahead. Over the last 12 years, we have developed 16 digital solutions that streamline the visa process, making it more secure and efficient.” As travel patterns evolve and the world embraces digitalisation, VFS Global remains committed to leading the charge in visa innovations, ensuring that the process is fast, reliable, and secure.
