With demand for outbound travel from the Philippines reaching record levels, VFS Global has warned visa applicants to watch out for fraudsters posing as company representatives or agents who offer fake appointments or promise guaranteed visa approvals in exchange for money.
At an event in Manila on Feb. 12, Bernard Vijaykumar, head of North Asia and the Philippines for VFS Global, urged travelers to apply for their visas well ahead of their planned trips.
He said waiting until the last minute can lead to processing delays and makes applicants more vulnerable to scams, adding that VFS Global does not work with any third-party agents and has no influence over the outcome of visa applications.
To help applicants avoid common pitfalls, VFS Global advised travelers to begin the visa process as early as possible. Most countries accept applications up to 90 days before departure, while Schengen visas can be applied for as early as six months in advance.
Visa appointments are free and can only be booked through the official VFS Global website. The company does not charge for appointment scheduling, though a few countries may require a small service fee.
Vijaykumar also reminded applicants that decisions on visa approvals are made solely by embassies or consulates. VFS Global handles administrative tasks, such as collecting forms and biometrics, but has no say in whether a visa is approved or denied.
He warned applicants to stay cautious of individuals claiming to represent VFS Global or offering guaranteed visas for a fee. The company is not involved in recruitment or immigration services, and travelers should avoid offers for jobs or visas that seem too good to be true.
VFS Global noted that errors in applications can also lead to delays or rejections. Applicants should ensure that personal details match their official documents, submit properly formatted photographs, and provide complete and accurate documentation. For certain destinations, authenticated bank statements may be required, and failing to meet this requirement is a common mistake.
The company handles visa-related services for 28 governments in the Philippines, including Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and several European countries. Its role is limited to administrative support, and it does not influence visa decisions.
To further enhance convenience, VFS Global offers optional services such as visa processing at home, personalized lounge assistance, and courier delivery for passports and documents.
