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VFS Global has renewed its commitment to transparency and applicant protection in Ghana, cautioning the public against fraudulent agents who claim they can secure early visa appointments or guarantee successful visa applications in exchange for payment.
The advisory comes amid increasing demand for visa services across various markets, especially during peak travel periods involving students, families, corporate travellers, organised groups, sports teams, and official delegations.
According to VFS Global, applicants should plan their travel arrangements well in advance, rely only on official sources of information, and avoid intermediaries who falsely claim to influence appointment availability or visa decisions.
“Trust is central to the visa application experience,” said Prashant Kansara, Regional Head for Central and West Africa at VFS Global. He emphasised that the company’s role is limited to managing the administrative aspects of visa applications on behalf of partner governments and urged applicants to use only official VFS Global channels.
To combat fraud in Ghana, VFS Global has introduced several safeguards, including appointment verification systems, one-time-password (OTP) appointment booking, application reference validation, anti-fraud awareness messaging, and controlled access to Visa Application Centres for applicants with valid appointments.
The company stressed that no employee, agent, or third party can guarantee quicker appointments, faster visa processing, or positive visa outcomes. Visa decisions remain solely the responsibility of the respective governments.
VFS Global also highlighted growing demand for its group booking service, which helps coordinate visa submissions for students, educational institutions, corporate teams, sports delegations, families, and large travel groups. The company clarified that while the service improves coordination and convenience, it does not influence appointment availability, visa approval decisions, or processing timelines.
The Office of the Paramount Chief of Gbese, Adonten of the Ga State, has commended VFS Global for its support during visa processing for participants in the inaugural Gbese Mantse Homowo Festival and Business Summit held in the Netherlands in September 2025.
In a testimonial, His Royal Majesty Nii Ayi-Bonte I praised the professionalism demonstrated by VFS Global, noting that the collection of applications directly from the chief’s office was a unique and appreciated service for many chiefs and queens who participated in the delegation.
Beyond standard visa processing services, VFS Global offers optional government-approved services such as form-filling assistance, passport courier return, SMS updates, Premium Lounge access, and mobile application services under its “Visa At Your Doorstep” initiative. The company emphasised that these services are optional, clearly priced, and have no impact on visa decisions or processing times.
VFS Global reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy towards fraud, misrepresentation, coercion, and unethical conduct, encouraging applicants to report suspicious activities through official channels.
The company has operated in Ghana since 2005 and currently serves 19 client governments through 23 visa application centres across the country, employing approximately 100 Ghanaian staff.
Source: 3news
