The number of visa applications processed in 2022 from Nigeria rose more than 40 per cent in comparison to 2021, even as the leading visa outsourcing and technology services specialist, VFS Global, has predicted an increase in international travels in 2023.
Recall that when international borders started to open in mid-2021, the travel and tourism industry expected a slow recovery, primarily due to too many travel restrictions still in place, coupled with an uneven vaccine rollout globally. However, the surge in travel activity in 2022 has taken the industry by surprise, exceeding the conservative recovery projections.
In a press statement made available to LEADERSHIP, the Head, Sub Saharan Africa, VFS Global, Hariprasad Viswanathan, revealed that the demand for visas was due to the high pent-up travel demand, while predicting an increase in international travel from last year to continue this year as well.
Explaining further, Viswanathan said with the opening of international borders and easing travel restrictions, the industry is witnessing peak ‘revenge’ travel, adding that the resumption of in-campus classes at overseas universities was also a major contributing factor to this spike.
He urged applicants to apply for their visas, book their flight and hotel in advance, when planning their travels, adding that, “Seeing the surge in demand for outbound travel in 2022 and with limited appointment slots available, we encourage our applicants to apply for their visas as early as possible in 2023.”
He also called on applicants to be sure to carry all the requisite documentation, including a printout of the checklist, to submit along with the duly filled application form.
“Just like applying for a visa in advance, it is recommended that applicants must check their passport’s validity before planning an international trip. Many countries require a valid passport six months beyond your return date,” he stated.
Speaking on series of common queries applicants in Nigeria have raised, Viswanathan revealed that one of the queries is the typical turnaround timelines for visas, while advising Applicants that visa processing timelines vary country-wise, and details are available on VFS Global website.
“We would like to caution applicants that during the period of increased outbound travel demand, visa processing could take longer than anticipated,” he added.
He further disclosed that, “Appointment slots are offered online based on the volume of demand or forecast, and in conjunction with the Embassy’s own internal capacity planning. Once scheduled, we highly recommend applicants be at the Centre 15 minutes before the appointed time to avoid missing your slot. We strongly advise all applicants to be careful of touts and fraudulent parties who falsely promise early appointment bookings in exchange for payment.”
He revealed that the time taken for visa processing differs with each mission, while recommending that applicants should check the turnaround timelines before applying. “Opting for any optional, value-added services (such as Prime Time Services or Form-filling, or any other service) does not guarantee a quicker or more positive decision by the concerned Embassy/Consulate,” he added.
On the other hand, Viswanathan averred that these premium services like Visa at your doorstep have seen a significant increase last year as more and more applicants seek the ease and convenience these services offer in their travel planning, at an additional cost.
On why applications get rejected, Viswanathan said the most common reason why visa applications get rejected is due to incorrect or insufficient information submitted while applying for a visa, while urging applicants to check their respective country websites by visiting VFS website, under the documents checklist section, while reiterating that VFS Global manages only the administrative and non-judgmental tasks related to visa, passport and consular services for its Governments, as the company does not play any role in the decision-making process of visas.
“This is the sole prerogative of the respective governments,” he added.
Speaking on fee refunds, he said, “Our refund policy applies to any services fees and optional value-added services charges collected by us from applicants as part of the visa process. This does not apply to visa and legalisation fees which are paid for the visa as it’s at the discretion of the respective visa-issuing government.
“Applicants are eligible for a refund if they have been charged more than once for the same service or if they have paid an excess sum, if a proof is provided. To apply for a refund, they must complete the Refund Request Form with the supporting documents online, within 30 days from the date of appointment cancellation. Refunds will be processed using the same mode of payment.”
