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VFS Global Combats Fraud Amid Unprecedented Visa Application Surge
This unprecedented demand for visa appointments has created a fertile ground for scammers targeting both visa applicants and jobseekers.
The global travel landscape in 2025 is experiencing a remarkable boom, with visa applications for destinations worldwide soaring to record-breaking levels.
A comprehensive report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), in collaboration with VFS Global, projects that the African Travel & Tourism sector could contribute US$168 billion to the continent’s economy while generating over 18 million new jobs.
This ambitious growth relies on transformative policies, including modernized air infrastructure, streamlined visa processing, and aggressive tourism marketing to position Africa as a premier global destination.
This unprecedented demand for visa appointments has created a fertile ground for scammers targeting both visa applicants and jobseekers. Fraudsters, often posing as VFS Global representatives or third-party agents, exploit applicants by offering expedited appointment slots in exchange for illicit payments, preying on those eager to secure timely travel documentation.
Mr. Stephen Kubasu, General Manager-Operations at VFS Global, addressed these concerns with a call for vigilance. “Visa appointment slots are allocated online, guided by demand projections and Consulate capacity planning,” he stated.
“We urge applicants to arrive at our Visa Application Centres 15 minutes early to avoid missing their scheduled time. Travellers must remain cautious of fraudulent entities promising early bookings for a fee. Many scammers create fake online profiles, misusing our logos and official branding on social media and search platforms to deceive applicants. These fraudulent listings often include misleading contact details, tricking travellers into believing they are engaging with VFS Global.”
To counter this rising tide of fraud, VFS Global has implemented robust safeguards. Only individuals with confirmed appointments are granted entry to Visa Application Centres, tightening access control. A new system integrates visa application form reference numbers with booking references to verify authenticity.
An OTP (One-Time Password) requirement for appointment bookings has been introduced to limit unauthorized agent involvement. Additionally, VFS Global has launched an extensive anti-fraud campaign, embedding warnings in social media posts, appointment letters, call centre messages, and physical signage. Applicants encountering suspicious activities are encouraged to report incidents to acco@vfsglobal.com for swift investigation and action.
The surge in outbound travel demand has led to extended visa processing times, prompting VFS Global to enhance its operational capacity. The company has extended centre operating hours, introduced dedicated time slots for passport submission and collection, and expanded waiting areas to better accommodate applicants. These measures aim to alleviate delays and improve the overall applicant experience amid the travel boom.
VFS Global does not control visa appointment availability or visa decisions. Its role is strictly limited to managing administrative and non-discretionary tasks related to visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments. All decisions regarding visa approvals, required documentation, and processing timelines are the exclusive responsibility of the respective governments.
Applicants are advised to arrive 15 minutes early for appointments to avoid forfeiture. Visa appointments are free and available only through www.vfsglobal.com, allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Processing times vary across diplomatic missions, and applicants should verify expected timelines on the VFS Global website before applying. Optional services, such as Prime Time or Form-filling, do not influence visa processing speed or outcomes, which remain under Embassy or Consulate authority.
However, premium offerings like Visa At Your Doorstep have surged in popularity over the past three years, as travellers increasingly prioritize convenience, despite the additional costs associated with these services.