Visa applications volumes from Kolkata touched 85% of pre-pandemic levels in 2022
Visa application volumes more than doubled in 2022 compared to 2021
· Healthy uptick for personalised services such as Visa At Your Doorstep
News Editor, Takmaa News, Kolkata, 27th Mar 2023 : Visa applications from Kolkata nearly touched the pre-pandemic levels in 2022 driven by pent-up demand, opening of international borders, and eased COVID-related protocols. According to VFS Global, the visa application volume from Kolkata reached 85% of the 2019 pre-pandemic levels in 2022 and registered a 160% growth when compared to 2021.
“We witnessed unprecedented demand from India in 2022which led to an extended peak outbound travel season with steady volumes witnessed until December. We are confident that the momentum will further grow and hence it is advisable for applicants to apply for their visas in advance to avoid last-minute surprises,” said Prabuddha Sen, Chief Operating Officer, (South Asia), VFS Global.
Another defining trend noticed in travellers’ behaviour was wider adoption of personlised service which began since the pandemic. Premium optional services such as Visa At Your Doorstep, (VAYD) that enables travellers to book the entire visa experience at a location of their choice witnessed a 2.5x surge in 2022. VFS Global offers VAYD for 16 client governments in India – Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Slovenia, Switzerland, UK.
“Health considerations continue to be a key determining factor in the new normal. As a result we see an increasing number of travellers opt of such services that provide a seamless visa experience and prioratise safe travel,” added Sen.
Peak Season Travel Guide
#ApplyinAdvance
It is recommended to apply for visas as early as booking flights and stay. Most countries accept visa applications up to 90 days (3 months) before your date of travel. According to the revised Schengen Visa Code, effective 09th February 2020, you can apply for a Schengen visa up to 6 months before your date of travel. Particularly this year with higher demand and limited appointment slots available, we urge applicants to apply for their visa as early as possible.
#DoNotFallForFraud
Visa applicants are advised to beware of fraudulent entities who charge fees from customers for scheduling appointments or providing any other services using VFS Global’s name or independently.We do not charge any payment for scheduling appointments. For any assistance, feel free to reach out to one of our staff or send an email to communications@vfsglobal.com
Enjoy our optional value-added services for a seamless visa experience such as:
· Premium Lounges:Quick, safe, comfortable – get a personalised visa submission experience.
· Form-filling assistance: Allow our expert staff to assist you in completing your visa application on phone or at a visa application centre
· Courier Service: We deliver your passport and documents. It’s quick, safe, and convenient.
· Travel Medical Insurance:Get your mandatory Travel Medical Insurance including Covid-19 coverage from global insurers.
· SMS Alerts: Stay updated on the progress of your visa application.
For more information click here: https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/solutions.html
