VFS Global Under Fire: Do Indians Have Other Ways To Apply For European Visas?
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VFS Global handles millions of visa applications yearly for several governments, with countries like Germany and France heavily relying on its centres in India.
Most European countries outsource the administrative aspects of visa processing to private companies such as VFS Global. (Image: Canva)
VFS Global, the world’s largest visa processing outsourcing company, is being accused of malpractices, including aggressive upselling of premium services, severe data privacy vulnerabilities, and the systemic exploitation of visa applicants.
A year-long investigation by investigative journalism organisation Lighthouse Reports found that the Dubai-based company built an adjacent business around selling add-ons such as SMS alerts, courier returns, and access to premium lounges.
The investigation, published in collaboration with multiple international media outlets, including The Indian Express, claimed that applicants were often pushed toward paid “premium” services that were officially optional. Inspection reports reviewed by the consortium also flagged concerns about data-handling practices and alleged corruption in appointment systems at some centres.
VFS Global has denied wrongdoing and said its operations are “subject to rigorous and continuous government oversight.” The company also stated that its premium services are optional and that it follows strict compliance and anti-bribery standards.
But the controversy has left many Indian travellers wondering: Is it possible to apply for European visas without going through VFS Global?
Why Is VFS Global So Important?
Most European countries outsource the administrative aspects of visa processing to private companies such as VFS Global. These firms do not decide whether a visa is approved or rejected — that power remains with embassies and consulates. Instead, outsourcing companies handle appointment bookings, document collection, biometric enrolment, and passport returns.
Today, VFS Global works with dozens of governments worldwide and processes millions of visa applications every year. Several Schengen countries, including Germany and France, use VFS centres extensively in India.
Can Indians Apply Directly Through Embassies?
In many cases, no. For most Schengen countries, applicants in India are required to submit visa applications through officially authorised visa application centres such as VFS Global.
Several embassies explicitly direct applicants to use these outsourced centres for appointment booking and biometric submission.
However, there are a few exceptions:
Diplomats and official passport holders may sometimes apply directly through embassies.
Certain long-term national visas, student visas, or residency permits may require direct embassy appointments depending on the country.
Some embassies maintain limited in-house visa counters for special categories. The rules vary country by country, and travellers should always verify procedures through the official embassy or consulate website.
Are There Alternatives To VFS Global?
Yes, but options are limited. Not every European country uses VFS Global. Some governments partner with other outsourcing companies such as TLScontact or BLS International, for visa processing in certain regions.
However, for many Schengen destinations in India, VFS remains the primary authorised service provider.
Applicants should also remember that no private company can guarantee a visa approval or offer faster decisions in exchange for additional fees. European visa decisions are made solely by consular officials.
What Should Travellers Watch Out For?
Experts advise travellers to avoid unofficial agents and carefully check all optional charges before paying. Many embassies have repeatedly warned applicants against fraudsters and fake appointment services. Before booking a visa appointment, travellers should:
- Use only official embassy or authorised visa centre websites
- Double-check whether premium services are optional
- Avoid paying agents promising guaranteed visas
- Be cautious while sharing biometric or personal data
- Keep records of receipts and communications
The Bigger Debate Around Visa Outsourcing
The controversy surrounding VFS Global has reignited a larger debate around the privatisation of visa systems. Critics argue that outsourcing essential immigration services to private firms creates profit-driven systems where applicants are treated more like customers than travellers. Supporters, meanwhile, say outsourcing helps governments manage growing visa demand without overwhelming embassies.
For Indian travellers planning European holidays, studies, or business trips, one thing remains clear: while VFS Global may dominate the process, understanding your rights, fees, and official procedures is more important than ever.
