Visa Applications: VFS Global Concerned Over Fraud Threats

• VFS Global has cautioned about the potential of fraudsters scamming persons seeking visas
• The scammers are noted to lure job seekers and unsuspecting visa applicants by promising early appointments for cash
• VFS Global has assured that it has safeguards in place to protect the integrity of the application process

Visa service provider VFS Global has warned about the potential of fraudsters scamming persons seeking visas.

It noted in a statement to YEN.com.gh that the number of visa applications submitted for various countries is higher than ever in 2025.

Ghana is among the top 10 nationalities by volume for UK visit visas, for example.

"Due to the rising demand for visa application appointments, scammers are posing as employees or representatives of the organisation, as well as agents and intermediaries."

The scammers are said to lure job seekers and unsuspecting visa applicants by falsely promising early appointment slots in exchange for additional fees.

To avoid such fraudsters, Cleopatra Avenorgbo, Deputy General Manager in Charge of Operations at VFS Global, stressed that appointment slots are offered online based on the volume of demand or forecast.

The appointment slots also take into account the consulate’s internal capacity planning.

As a safeguard, VFS Global, which started operations in Ghana in 2005, mandated that only applicants with a valid appointment are permitted entry into its Visa Application Centres located in Accra and Kumasi.

VFS Global is a commercial company that provides administrative and technology services to governments and diplomatic missions, primarily related to visa and other consular services.

The company manages only the administrative and non-judgmental tasks related to visa, passport and consular services for governments.

The company does not play any role in the decision-making process of visas. It's the sole prerogative of the respective governments.

The availability of visa appointments, mandatory documentation, and the visa application decision, including the processing time, are entirely at the discretion of the respective governments.

Main reasons visa applications are rejected

VFS Global noted that the most common reason visa applications get rejected is due to incorrect or insufficient information, among other requirements.

Avenorgbo noted that applicants need to check the respective country websites under the document checklist section.

The optional form-filling service offered at an additional cost for some locations could ensure the correct information is updated.

VFS operating from Kumasi now

UK visa application services were expanded to Kumasi in the Ashanti Region from June 26.

The service provider, VFS Global, said the expansion was to enhance customer experience and cater to growing demand.

In a notice, VFS said it would be based at the Golden Bean Hotel in Kumasi.

US Embassy rolls out pre-screening process

YEN.com.gh reported that the US Embassy rolled out a new pre-screening process for immigrant visa applicants.

Since September 2024, applicants have been attending a pre-screening appointment between three and four hours before their visa interview.

Per a notice from the embassy, applicants will receive a separate pre-screening email notifying them of their appointment date and all documents required. The embassy also explained that a document review will be conducted, and applicants will be notified beforehand if they are missing any documents.

Visa applicants will then be instructed to obtain the missing documents to be ready for subsequent interviews.

Proofreading by Samuel Gitonga, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.

Source: YEN.com.gh