VFS Global expands network of Russia Visa Application Centres
VFS Global has launched a host of new Russia Visa Application Centres in a move to enhance visa application services for travellers to the country as it gears up to host major sporting events.
Russia is set to welcome visitors from all over the globe for the FIFA Confederations Cup 2017 and World Cup 2018, and VFS has now opened Russia Visa Application Centres in 14 countries in just seven months.
The centres are rolled out on behalf of the Government of the Russian Federation’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, across Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
The Russia Visa Application Centre in Geneva, Switzerland, on 23 January 2017 is the latest centre to be opened, and since June 2016, the company has launched similar Visa Application Centres in Portugal, Poland, Czech Republic, Greece, Germany, Belgium, Austria, the Netherlands, Romania, Lithuania, Turkey, China, and the UAE.
Demand set to increase
All the centres are centrally located with staff with multi-lingual (Russian and local language) capabilities to handle queries and applications. For dissemination of information, VFS has set up dedicated websites for each location providing applicants with easy access to details about visa categories, requirements, checklist and applicable fees.
The roll-outs come ahead of the major football events when inbound travel to the country is expected to rise significantly. The new centres will significantly improve accessibility and conveniences for travellers planning to travel to Russia.
VFS Global has been providing visa-processing services for the Government of the Russian Federation since 2009, and currently serves the government in 18 countries, including the UK, Finland, Singapore, and South Korea.
Anirudh Pratap Singh, Head – UK & Europe, VFS Global, said: “Our long-standing partnership with our esteemed client government, the Russian Federation, over the last seven years, is reflective of the trust they have in us through this successful relationship.
“We are privileged to further extend our network for them and remain committed to providing comprehensive end-to-end visa services for applicants.”
