Visa applications from New Delhi surge by 10% in 2023, close in on pre-pandemic levels, ET TravelWorld

Visa application volumes from New Delhi witnessed 10 per cent year-on-year growth in 2023, marking a significant recovery to 82 per cent of pre-pandemic levels. The resurgence in travel confidence and the gradual relaxation of travel restrictions were key drivers behind this upward trend, according to VFS Global, the world’s leading visa facilitation service provider.

This surge in visa applications from New Delhi mirrors the broader growth trend observed across India, with the country experiencing a 16 per cent year-on-year increase in visa application volumes in 2023. Compared to pre-pandemic figures, visa application volumes from India reached an impressive 93 per cent of 2019 levels, signaling a strong rebound in international travel aspirations among Indian citizens.

Briefing a media roundtable in New Delhi, Vishal Jairath, Head of South Asia, VFS Global, sharing details said, “The sustained demand for visas from India in 2023 reflects the unwavering enthusiasm of travellers to explore global destinations. As we look ahead to 2024, we anticipate this positive momentum to continue. Hence, we advise applicants planning overseas travel from India to apply for their visas well in advance to avoid any last-minute rush.”

Among the preferred destinations for Indian travellers in 2023 were Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, UK, and the US. This diverse selection underscores the adventurous spirit and varied interests of Indian globetrotters.

Moreover, VFS said the surge in demand for personalised services such as Visa At Your Doorstep (VAYD) reflects the evolving preferences of travellers. VFS Global recorded a remarkable five-fold increase in VAYD bookings in 2023 compared to 2019, indicating a growing appetite for convenient and hassle-free visa application processes.

Jairath highlighted, “The adoption of contactless and personalised services like VAYD signifies travellers’ prioritisation of safety and convenience, especially in the post-pandemic era. We anticipate a continued demand for such premium services in 2024, as travellers seek enhanced experiences and peace of mind during their journeys.”

GB Srithar joins VFS Global as Head of Tourism Services

Bringing with him a distinguished career spanning over 27 years, Srithar joins VFS Global from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), where he held various pivotal roles, including Area Director for South India & Sri Lanka and Regional Director overseeing marketing and tourism development across multiple regions. In his new role, Srithar will leverage his extensive expertise to provide specialized services in Travel, Trade, and Tourism Services to VFS Global’s client governments.

In light of the anticipated surge in travel demand, VFS Global has urged applicants to apply for visas well in advance to secure timely appointments and ensure seamless travel planning. Additionally, travellers are advised to remain vigilant against fraudulent entities purporting to offer visa-related services and to report any suspicious activities promptly.

With international travel on the rebound, VFS Global said it remains committed to providing travellers with comprehensive visa services and optional value-added services for a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

VFS Global, serving as the trusted partner to 52 sovereign governments in India, operates a vast network of over 560 visa application centers across 19 cities. While the organisation facilitates front-end administrative tasks related to visa applications, it plays no role in the decision-making process of visa approvals or rejections.