Rédaction Africa Links 24 with News Desk
Published on 2024-03-17 13:44:28
The year 2023 saw a significant rise in global outbound travel, with countries like Ghana experiencing a surge in visa application volumes. According to data from VFS Global, visa applications in Ghana nearly doubled compared to the previous year, with popular destinations like Canada, The Netherlands, and Saudi Arabia seeing positive trends in application volumes.
Several factors have contributed to this increase in outbound travel, including pent-up demand, extended peak seasons, and the reopening of in-campus classes at overseas universities. The Ghana Passport Premium Application Centres managed by VFS Global saw a 30% rise in processed applications, indicating a strong desire among Ghanaians to travel abroad.
During a media outreach session in Accra, Hariprasad Viswanathan, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa at VFS Global, emphasized the reasons behind the surge in visa demand and shared tips for applicants preparing for the peak travel season. He highlighted the rebound of outbound travel to pre-pandemic levels, with tourism, family visits, education, and business trips being common reasons for travel from Ghana.
Viswanathan urged applicants to apply for visas early to secure appointment slots, as demand for outbound travel continues to increase. He also emphasized VFS Global’s commitment to improving the visa application experience through innovative solutions and regular communication with applicants about processing timelines, data protection, fraud prevention, and value-added services.
Applicants were advised to ensure they have all necessary documentation, including a checklist printout and filled application form, before visiting the Visa Application Centre. Viswanathan also cautioned that visa processing timelines vary by country and could be longer during periods of increased travel demand.
Visa appointments are free and can be scheduled on the VFS Global website on a first-come, first-served basis. Viswanathan warned against fraudulent parties promising early appointments for payment, as appointment availability and processing times are at the discretion of respective governments. He recommended applicants arrive 15 minutes early for their appointments to avoid missing their slot.
In conclusion, VFS Global remains dedicated to facilitating outbound travel for Ghanaians and providing a seamless visa application experience. As the demand for international travel continues to rise, applicants are encouraged to plan ahead, adhere to requirements, and stay informed about the visa application process to ensure a smooth travel experience.
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